At Little Jewels Learning Center, we love children - in sickness and in health. We know that when they are sick, this can be both challenging and concerning for parents. It is our goal to offer you as much support as possible about common illnesses and the childcare sick policies we have in place to prevent the spread of disease.
First, it's essential to understand that most who are ill are contagious before they show any symptoms. This is true of both adults and children. So, at Little Jewels, we don't blame children, families, or caregivers when we learn that a child has come down with an illness. Instead, we follow our well-established childcare center sick policy that was developed from two decades of experience keeping our local children healthy. These policies, together with in-house sanitation procedures, handwashing mandates, and education work together to help prevent the spread of germs and illnesses.
When we learn that a classroom has been exposed to an illness, we communicate with our families so they can be aware if symptoms arise for their child. This is done through signage placed on the affected classroom door. If you see a sign and have questions, please get in touch with us. Our goal will always be to foster positive and open communication with our families and enforce clear rules to protect all of us.
While we can't control all the germs in the world, we can certainly offer some insight into the common childhood illnesses and symptoms seen. They are as follows:
Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFM)
Children under seven have the highest chance of getting this very common and contagious viral infection. Not surprisingly, given its name, HFM causes blisters that may form on children's hands, feet, and mouths. Children often have flu-like symptoms, including fever and sometimes stomach pain. They may also have blisters in the back of their throat and have pain when swallowing. If you think about a child who itches his hand or foot and then goes about a day of play, you can easily picture how this virus can spread quickly. Diligent handwashing is encouraged by all caregivers and all children to stop the spread of this disease.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
RSV is also highly contagious, causing cold and flu-like symptoms. A sore throat, runny nose, cough, and fever are common. Much like a cold or flu, those infected spread the germs. Coughing, sneezing, or talking releases virus-laden droplets in the air that may be breathed in by others or can live on surfaces (like doorknobs) for a very long time.
What is concerning about this virus is that it can lead to more severe lung infections, such as bronchiolitis or pneumonia, especially in infants younger than one year old. It is always important to check in with your pediatricians when your infant has breathing difficulty. Proper testing and care will ensure that you get the right treatment.
Conjunctivitis (Pinkeye)
Pinkeye is when the white part of the eye and inner eyelids, or the conjunctiva, becomes inflamed and infected. While it is typically a minor infection, when you see red, swollen eyes on your child, you may worry that he'll never be the same again. Never fear; while Pinkeye is highly contagious, it is quite common, and children typically feel better quickly with prompt treatment.
Parents should also be aware that there are other issues that can cause eye discomfort. This includes allergic and irritant conjunctivitis, which can cause redness, itching, and swelling of one or both eyes. Upon contact with an irritant or allergen, eyes can react negatively, and children respond quickly to discomfort. Always seek a professional diagnosis when in doubt about what type your child may have.
Strep Throat
Strep throat is a bacterial infection of the throat and tonsils that is most common in children aged five through 15. It is much less common and fairly rare for children under age three to be affected. Like a cold or flu virus, the group A Streptococcus bacteria is spread by direct contact or respiratory droplets.
Coughs and runny noses are not symptoms of strep and are more likely caused by a cold or flu virus. Symptoms of strep include pain while swallowing, sore throat, white patches or pus on the tonsils, tiny red spots on the roof of the mouth, and swollen lymph nodes in the front of the neck. Be aware that sometimes, those infected with strep have no symptoms and do not seem sick. Unfortunately, even if they have no symptoms, they are contagious.
Gastroenteritis
Several viruses, including norovirus, can cause stomach bugs. No matter which virus is to blame, the symptoms are often similar and include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and fever. Along with these areas of concern often income loss of appetite and the risk of dehydration. We've all been there and hate seeing our children go through it.
We are strong advocates of rest and hydration to promote faster recovery, but also for proactive prevention and healthy children in general. Solid sleep routines and diets low in sugar and high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins are always recommended. Healthy habits at home can support healthy immune systems, fight the battle against germs, and lessen sick time when inflicted.
Whenever there are many little ones around, there are also germs. Illnesses will happen no matter how many precautions we take, how well we sanitize, or how effectively we communicate. We encourage you to develop a good relationship with your pediatrician to feel comfortable getting attention and treatment when needed. Also, remember that while we are not physicians, we care for and see our families as an extension of our own. The health of your children and your family is important to us, and we are proud to be a part of your care team.