Some illnesses do require a child to stay home from child care or school, and some child care centers have their own policies regarding illnesses. The following chart contains some basic guidelines.



                Symptom                                                                    When it’s OK to send your child

Fevers, coughing, and vomiting                                                           Once a doctor indicates it’s OK

Diarrhea                                                                                                  If it occurs 2-3 times a day and the stool 

                                                                                                                          is contained in the diaper

Rashes                                                                                                    Once doctor indicates it is non-infectious

“Pink-eye” with clear or watery discharge                                         Does not warrant exclusion


“Pink-eye” with yellow or white discharge                                         24 hours after treatment is started


Strep throat and Impetigo                                                                    24 hours after treatment is started


Chicken Pox                                                                                            When all sores are dried and crusted over