Let’s face it – starting daycare can feel like a wild ride for both you and your little one. While you’re preparing for emotional farewells and new routines, you can also expect a never-ending flow of germs that come with the daycare experience. When my daughter entered daycare, I thought I was ready. Spoiler alert: I wasn’t. Just a few months in, we had made several emergency pickups, survived many sleepless nights thanks to a congested toddler, and had practically become regulars at our pediatrician’s office. If this sounds all too familiar, you’re definitely in the right spot.
Daycare and Illness
Infants and toddlers in daycare typically catch around 10-12 colds a year, though this number decreases as they grow older. Adults and older kids usually experience closer to 4 colds annually. The winter months can be particularly harsh, with RSV, flu, and other respiratory illnesses making their rounds in daycare settings. Balancing work commitments, managing sick days, and the emotional strain of seeing your child unwell can feel like a lot to handle. It’s no fun to burn through your sick days by mid-February due to daycare illnesses. Here are some helpful guidelines from the APP on when to keep your child home from daycare.
Creating Your Family’s “Sick Kit”
One thing that has kept my sanity intact during these sick seasons is having a dedicated “sick kit” ready to go. I was always searching for lozenges I thought I had stashed away from the last illness, and having them organized in a bin or caddy was a game changer. Here’s what you might consider including:
- Choose the Right Container
Start with a designated container – a plastic tub with a lid or a large basket works wonders. You want something easily accessible but stored out of reach from curious little hands. I personally like a caddy, although I’ve seen parents use a bucket that can double as a barf bin (not sure how I feel about that, but it’s your call). - Symptom Management Essentials
- Thermometer (digital ones are great, but use what you have)
- Fever Bugz stickers (makes those overnight checks less disruptive)
- Electrolyte packets (to help keep hydration up)
- Tissues (I prefer the soft, lotion-infused kind for endless nose wiping)
- Sniffer Soothers for extra gummy noses
- Tylenol and Advil (I kept these in a different spot when not in use)
- Respiratory Support
- Navage Baby Nasal Aspirator (gentler than those bulb syringes)
- Zarbee’s chest rub (avoid anything with camphor for kids under two)
- Saline Drops (especially for stubborn congestion)
- Humidifier (to keep the air moist for easier breathing)
- Comfort and Care Items
- Nightlight (soft enough for midnight check-ins)
- A comfort toy (designated for sick days only to make it special)
- Bath oil (for soothing pre-bedtime baths)
- Cleaning and Containment Supplies
If you’re building a bin instead of a caddy, consider adding these items:- Trash bags (great for clean-ups)
- Carpet cleaner (for those late-night stomach bugs)
- Lysol wipes (for quick disinfecting of surfaces)
- Quick-Reference Info Sheet
Include a sheet with your pediatrician’s contact info, nearest urgent care details, and basic medication dosing guidelines based on your child’s weight.
Hygiene Practices That Make a Difference
Here are some practical suggestions:
- Establish hand washing routines immediately upon returning home from daycare.
- Label everything to reduce the chance of mix-ups with other kids’ items.
- Change out of daycare clothes at the door to minimize germs.
- Teach proper coughing and sneezing etiquette; daycares usually do a good job with this.
Creating Your Sick Day Backup Plan
Despite your best efforts, sick days will happen. Having a solid backup plan can help you manage these interruptions:
- Identify your backup care network: consider grandparents or trusted neighbors.
- Discuss flexible work options with your employer ahead of time.
- Connect with other daycare parents to form a small “illness co-op.”
Self-Care Through the Chaos
I know it’s easier said than done, but you’re taking care of a little one who’s a walking germ factory, so take care of yourself too. Try to nap when your child does, accept help from friends who offer meals or supplies, and adjust your expectations – it’s okay if your house gets messy.
Trust Your Instincts
While daycare illnesses are common and usually minor, always trust your instincts. You know your child best. If something seems off, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider.
In Summary
Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Every parent dropping off their child at daycare is navigating similar challenges and has likely received that dreaded call about a little incident. It could be a rash, a fever, or even a biting incident, but it’s all part of the wild ride of parenthood. Just know you’ll probably catch the same illness as your child as they bounce back to health full of energy.
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