GREENSBORO, N.C. — It's time for "my 2 cents."
This time of year, a foreboding sense of deja vu takes hold of parents, grandparents, and caretakers. From the moment a child brings home that first back-to-school cough, runny nose, or stomach bug, we collectively sigh, "Here, we go, again...with sick season."
Usually, one sick person means an entire sick family, and everyone gets healthy again just in time for the next germ to make the vicious cycle repeat itself. This year, I am asking all of us to try our best not to send children to school or activities when they are sick.
The American Academy of Pediatrics' general guidelines are to keep the child home for:
- Fever above 101 degrees within the last 24 hours
- Vomiting or diarrhea within the last 24 hours
- If the child is not feeling well enough to participate in class
When in doubt, consult a pediatrician...and trust your parent gut.
Missed school means, for many parents, missed work and possibly missed paychecks. So, now is the time to figure out a sick season plan of action.
Talk with your spouse or trusted babysitter. Figure out who has sick leave or PTO, and who has the flexibility to work remotely. If both options are limited, schedule a planning meeting with your boss on how to make up a shift. Also, see if your child's school has ideas for emergency childcare.
We have to band together to slow the spread of school sickness, so all children can stay in class more often this fall and winter. Let's let common courtesy be contagious.
Sincerely,
Meghann