How Do I Know If My Kids Need To Miss School?

Every Mom has woken up on a busy morning to hear the dreaded phrase, “I don’t feel good.” After the initial flurry of thoughts pass by, we all start to calm down and really consider if our children need to miss school for an “I don’t feel good” day. There are several things parents need to consider before deciding to call off work and school.

Is your child running a temperature?

While a temperature can fluctuate based on age, activity and the time of day, the generally accepted normal temperature is 98.6 degrees. If your child is showing a temperature of 100.4, it is a sign that he has an infection or an illness that requires him to stay home from school and keep him from exposing other children to the illness. Temperatures can be treated at home with fluids and over-the-counter pain relievers, but only under the supervision of a qualified medical professional. If his temperature goes to 104 degrees, immediately contact emergency services, as that requires immediate medical intervention.

Is your child showing physical signs of illness?

If your ordinarily cheerful and peppy daughter is sluggish and cranky, or your son, who usually has an enormous appetite, isn’t interested in breakfast, they may be fighting off an illness. A child who doesn’t feel well at home won’t feel any better when they get to school, and he won’t be able to focus on his work. Sometimes the fatigue or lack of appetite that comes with an illness manifests itself well before a temperature does. Keep your child at home and let them rest if they are showing these types of symptoms.

Do you think your child may be contagious?

Of course, you don’t want to miss an important meeting at work. You also don’t want your child to miss the big test they’ve been agonizing over for the last three days. If, however, you believe that your child has any illness that may be contagious to others, keep them at home. Your child’s health is more important than that makeup test, and you’ll feel better knowing they are at home where you can care for them instead of potentially becoming more ill while at school.