When to Keep Your Child Home Sick from School

If your child is not feeling well, your pediatrician is the best person to consult about whether they can go to school. Common sense, con­cern for your child’s well-being, and the possibility of infecting classmates should all contribute to the decision about whether your child should stay home.

As general guidelines, keep your child home from school if:

1. They have a fever above 101 degrees Fahrenheit within the past 24 hours

2. They have had episodes of vomiting or diarrhea within the past 24 hours

3. They are not well enough to participate in class

What my child is feeling better but still has a runny nose?

Wondering what to do when your child has been sick and is feeling better—but still wakes up with minor problems such like a runny nose or slight head­ache? Depending on local attendance policies, you can send them to school if none of the three conditions above apply.

Even so, make sure the school and your child have a phone number where you can be reached during the day if more serious symptoms develop, and they need to return home.

Remember

Keep in mind that these guidelines are general. Families should always follow their local school, district or state guidance on school attendance, which may differ. Talk with your child’s pediatrician with any concerns you may have about when your child should attend school.

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