How do I stop my child from getting sick at day care?

One of the big concerns parents often have when starting child care for the first time is whether their child will get sick. For many children, the answer is yes  – they probably will pick up a few bugs, especially in the early weeks. It’s a totally normal part of adjusting to a new environment. 

For many little ones, this is the first time they’re spending long periods around large groups of other children. Their immune systems are still developing, and exposure to new germs is part of how they build their defences. While we can’t prevent every cold, we can work together to reduce the risk and support your child’s health. 

Here’s what we do at our centres services to help stop the spread of illness, and what our parents can do to support our efforts: 

Encouraging good hygiene at all times

We help children learn and practise healthy habits from day one, like washing hands before meals, after toileting, and after sneezing or wiping noses. We also teach them to cover their mouths when coughing or sneezing and use tissues properly. These routines are part of our everyday care and help prevent germs from spreading. 

Maintaining strict cleaning practices

Our team follows strict cleaning and sanitising routines throughout the day. Toys, surfaces, and shared equipment are cleaned regularly, and extra attention is paid to high-touch areas like door handles and bathrooms. 

Acting on the early signs of illness

Our educators are trained to spot when a child isn’t feeling well. If we notice your child showing early signs of illness, such as a runny nose, cough, fever or tiredness, we’ll let you know straight away so we can work together to manage it quickly and effectively. Children who present with a fever, rash, vomiting, diarrhea will be sent home following an exclusion period.  

Sending sick children home

To protect the whole group, children who are unwell are asked to stay home until they’re well enough to return. This reduces the risk of spreading infection and helps your child rest and recover properly before coming back to care. Children with contagious illnesses will be asked to provide a medical clearance before they can return.  

Ensuring up to date immunisation 

We follow government guidelines on immunisation, and it’s a requirement of our service that children attending care are up-to-date with their vaccinations. This helps protect not only your child but other children who may be more vulnerable. 

There are also things you can do at home to boost your little one’s immune system and help them fight off any infections they may be exposed to. 

Please keep unwell children home

If your child is unwell, even with something mild like a runny nose or cough, it’s best to let them rest at home. This helps them recover faster and keeps others from getting sick too. 

Be prepared for some sickness in the first couple of weeks

In those early days, your child may be more likely to catch minor bugs. It’s a good idea to plan ahead and have some time set aside for rest days just in case, and try not to pack too much into the calendar in the first few weeks of care. 

Try to get plenty of sleep at home

A good night’s sleep helps the body stay strong and fight off infection. Keeping a consistent bedtime routine at home can make a big difference to your child’s health and energy levels. 

Plenty of good nutritious food. 

Lots of colourful fruits and veggies, whole grains, and protein-rich foods help fuel your child’s body and support their immune system. A healthy, balanced diet is one of the best things you can offer to help them stay well. 

While we can’t promise your child won’t get sick, we’re committed to working together with you to keep everyone as healthy as possible. If you ever have any concerns or questions about your child’s health at care, please feel free to speak to our team – we’re always here to help.