Diarrhea Information for Kindergarten Parents
What is Diarrhea?
Diarrhea is when a child has loose, watery stools more frequently than usual. It's often caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites and can spread quickly in group settings like kindergartens.
Common symptoms include:
- Loose, watery stools
- Stomach cramps or pain
- Fever
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dehydration (dry mouth, no tears when crying, less urination)
Preventing the Spread of Diarrhea
Good hygiene practices are essential to prevent diarrhea from spreading in kindergarten:
- Handwashing: Teach children to wash hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially after using the toilet and before eating
- Proper diapering: Change diapers in designated areas and dispose of them properly
- Clean surfaces: Regularly disinfect toys, tables, and other frequently touched surfaces
- Food safety: Ensure proper food handling and storage
- Stay home when sick: Keep children home when they have diarrhea or other gastrointestinal symptoms
Important: Children with diarrhea should not return to kindergarten until they have been symptom-free for at least 24 hours.
When to Keep Your Child at Home
Please keep your child home if they experience any of the following:
- Two or more episodes of diarrhea in 24 hours
- Diarrhea with blood or mucus
- Fever (temperature above 38°C/100.4°F)
- Vomiting along with diarrhea
- Signs of dehydration
- Lethargy or unusual irritability
If your child develops diarrhea at kindergarten, we will contact you immediately to pick them up.
Home Care for Diarrhea
If your child has diarrhea:
- Offer plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration (water, oral rehydration solutions)
- Avoid sugary drinks, fruit juices, and milk which can worsen diarrhea
- Serve bland foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (BRAT diet)
- Ensure your child gets plenty of rest
- Contact your doctor if symptoms persist for more than 24 hours or if your child shows signs of dehydration