Sickness Policy

At Learning Tree Daycare, the health and safety of all children, families, and staff is our top priority. To maintain a safe and healthy environment, we ask that parents follow the guidelines below regarding illness and attendance.

When to Keep Your Child Home

Please keep your child at home if they exhibit any of the following symptoms:

• Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher within the past 24 hours (without fever-reducing medication).
• Vomiting or diarrhea within the past 24 hours.
• Persistent coughing or difficulty breathing.
• Unexplained rash or skin condition.
• Red, itchy, or watery eyes that may indicate conjunctivitis (pink eye).
• Sore throat with fever or swollen glands.
• Severe fatigue or inability to participate in regular activities.
• Lice, scabies, or other contagious conditions until treated and cleared by a doctor.

Notification of Illness

If your child becomes ill while at daycare, you will be contacted immediately. We request that you pick up your child within 1 hour of being notified.

Returning to Daycare

Your child may return to daycare when:

• They are fever-free for at least 24 hours without medication.
• They have been symptom-free for 24 hours (e.g., no vomiting or diarrhea).
• They have been on prescribed antibiotics for at least 24 hours (if applicable).
• They have a doctor’s note confirming they are no longer contagious, if required.

Contagious Illnesses

Please inform us immediately if your child is diagnosed with a contagious illness (e.g., chickenpox, COVID-19, flu, hand-foot-and-mouth disease). We will notify other parents while keeping the affected child’s identity confidential.

Medication Policy

• Medications will only be administered with a completed authorization form.
• Prescription medications must be in the original container with the child’s name, dosage, and instructions clearly labeled.
• Over-the-counter medications must also include written instructions from a parent or guardian.

Hygiene Practices

We follow strict hygiene practices to minimize the spread of illness, including:

• Regular handwashing for children and staff.
• Sanitizing toys, surfaces, and shared spaces daily.
• Encouraging children to cover their coughs and sneezes.

Emergency Care

In the event of a medical emergency, we will contact you immediately and, if necessary, seek medical assistance.

Parent Cooperation

We appreciate your cooperation in keeping sick children at home. This ensures the well-being of all children in our care and helps prevent the spread of illness.

If you have any questions or concerns about this policy, please don’t hesitate to contact us.