Lice in kindergarten – what to do? - briefly
If a child is identified with head lice, isolate the child, inform all parents, and start treatment with an approved pediculicide while laundering bedding and disinfecting classroom surfaces. Conduct a follow‑up inspection after treatment to verify that the infestation has been eliminated.
Lice in kindergarten – what to do? - in detail
Head‑lice infestations in early‑childhood classrooms require swift, systematic action. Staff should recognize the signs—itchy scalp, visible nits attached to hair shafts, and frequent scratching—and confirm the presence of live insects before proceeding.
Immediate response
- Isolate the affected child to prevent further spread while maintaining a calm environment.
- Notify the parents or guardians promptly, providing clear instructions for treatment and follow‑up.
- Record the incident in the facility’s health log, noting dates, names, and actions taken.
Treatment protocol for children
- Use a pediculicide shampoo or lotion approved for the child’s age, following the manufacturer’s timing guidelines.
- After the recommended period, rinse thoroughly and comb the hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb to remove remaining nits.
- Repeat the treatment after seven to ten days to eliminate newly hatched lice.
- Advise parents to wash the child’s bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water (≥60 °C) or to seal them in plastic bags for two weeks if laundering at high temperature is not possible.
Environmental sanitation
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and floor mats; discard vacuum bags immediately.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces such as tables, chairs, and toys with an appropriate antiseptic.
- Store hats, scarves, and hair accessories in sealed containers for at least 48 hours, as lice cannot survive without a host for longer than this period.
Communication strategy
- Send a concise notice to all families describing the situation, recommended preventive measures, and the facility’s policy for re‑entry after treatment.
- Provide educational material on recognizing lice and proper grooming practices.
- Encourage parents to report any additional cases promptly.
Preventive measures
- Implement routine head checks for all children on a weekly basis.
- Enforce a policy that requires children to keep hair tied back and to avoid sharing combs, hats, or hair accessories.
- Conduct periodic staff training on identification, treatment guidelines, and record‑keeping procedures.
By following these steps, a kindergarten can contain an outbreak efficiently, minimize disruption to the learning environment, and safeguard the health of all children and staff.