As a parent, one cannot help but ask how his or her child’s daycare is going to deal with their illness. Working and raising a child already becomes more complex when health issues are involved.
Daycare Sick Policies Explained
Daycare facilities in Australia generally have strict policies for accepting sick children to ensure that not only is the ill child protected but also to prevent the spread of diseases to other children and employees.
Daycares have strict guidelines regarding illnesses like fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, and contagious illnesses (e.g., conjunctivitis or chickenpox). If your child has one of these, they’re generally asked to be absent until they’re symptom-free or present a doctor’s note indicating that they’re ready to come back safely. Daycares usually refer to Australian health directives that mandate quarantine times for particular illnesses.
Asking your child’s daycare about the specific sick policies at the time of admission can prepare you ahead of time. Most daycares include this information in their welcome packet or their online site. Having it ahead of time spares you the shock on hectic mornings.
When Can My Sick Child Attend Daycare?
Despite having stringent laws, daycare centres may still accept mildly ill children under certain conditions. For instance, if your child has mild colds like a runny nose without fever or other severe symptoms, they may be able to go about their usual routine.
Each child is evaluated on a case-by-case basis, regarding the child’s general mood, energy level, and contagiousness of the illness. For example, they may not be feeling well enough to go to daycare if they’re cranky or tired, even with minimal symptoms.
If your child needs medication like paracetamol, you usually need to produce adequate documentation. Daycare staff can help with taking medications during daycare sessions, but most parents need to complete a medical authorisation form, as per the policy of the centre.
Actions to Take When Your Child is Sick
When your child is unable to attend daycare because of sickness, you can actually deal with the situation in certain ways. Begin by giving the daycare personnel notice. A majority of daycare facilities appreciate advance notice if a child is unable to come in, as this provides them with enough time to reschedule.
Then, help your child recover by following the advice of medical professionals. Keep them home and track their recovery. You can negotiate leave with your employer or make arrangements for alternative care like a family member or friend if you need assistance.
Finally, have a backup care plan in place for future days off when your child is sick. This helps you balance your work responsibilities and your child’s requirements, even at short notice.
Promoting Your Child’s Health
Our children’s health, more than anything, is our hope as parents. Daycare centres such as Little Learners in Tarneit make every effort to provide a healthy and comfortable environment for healthy and sick children alike. Having an understanding of your daycare’s sick policy, staying up-to-date on acceptable attendance times, and planning ahead, you are able to finesse sick days without extra tension.
Parenting has its share of issues, but being aware enables you to make choices that are appropriate for your child and your family’s needs.
