What should you do if a child has lice at the kindergarten? - briefly
Notify the kindergarten administration immediately and keep the child at home until an approved treatment is finished. Apply a pediculicide, wash all clothing and bedding in hot water, and advise other families to inspect their children.
What should you do if a child has lice at the kindergarten? - in detail
When a pupil is identified with head lice at a preschool, immediate and systematic actions are required to stop further transmission and to protect the health of all children and staff.
First, the classroom teacher or caregiver must notify the director and the health coordinator without delay. The notification should include the child’s name, the date of discovery, and any treatment that has already been started. The staff member responsible for health matters should then inform the parents of all children in the same group, advising them to examine their children and to begin treatment if necessary.
Next, a thorough inspection of every child in the affected class should be conducted. Trained personnel can use a fine-toothed comb on damp hair, focusing on the nape and behind the ears. Children who are found to have live insects or viable eggs must be removed from the group until they have completed at least 24 hours of appropriate treatment.
The treatment protocol typically includes the following steps:
- Apply a pediculicide shampoo or lotion that is approved for the child’s age; follow the manufacturer’s instructions for dosage and exposure time.
- Rinse the product thoroughly and use a fine-toothed comb to remove nits after the recommended interval (usually 7–10 days).
- Repeat the application after seven days to eliminate any newly hatched lice.
- Wash the child’s bedding, hats, scarves, and any washable clothing in hot water (minimum 130 °F / 54 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks to starve any remaining insects.
Environmental cleaning must accompany personal treatment. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and area rugs in the classroom. Disinfect shared items such as toys, books, and art supplies with an EPA‑registered disinfectant. Store personal belongings (e.g., backpacks, water bottles) in sealed containers until the cleaning process is complete.
After treatment, the health coordinator should document all actions taken, including dates, names of children treated, and communication with families. A follow‑up inspection should be scheduled ten days after the initial treatment to verify that the infestation has been eradicated. If new cases appear, repeat the inspection and treatment cycle.
Finally, implement preventive measures to reduce future occurrences: educate staff and parents on early detection, encourage regular head checks, and establish a clear policy that outlines the steps to be taken when lice are identified. Consistent application of these procedures minimizes disruption to the classroom routine and protects the well‑being of all participants.