How sick is too sick for school?

(Psst! Check out the flowchart below to help you make the best choice for your child when they feel unwell.)

We all want our children to stay on track with their education, but sending a sick child to school can do more harm than good. Keeping students home when they’re unwell is important not just for their health, but also for the wellbeing of their classmates and school staff.

Rest is essential for recovery. 

When children are sick, their bodies need time to fight off illness. Attending school can delay this process, leaving them sick for longer and making them feel even worse. Proper rest, hydration, and care at home can help children recover faster, so they can return to school healthy and ready to learn.

Schools are environments where germs can spread rapidly. 

A child who attends school while sick can easily transmit viruses or bacteria to many other students, teachers, and staff. This can lead to larger outbreaks, causing even more students to miss school. By keeping your child home, you help break the cycle of illness, protecting students, their families, and the entire school community.

Being in class while feeling unwell can hinder a child’s ability to focus and participate.

Your child may struggle to keep up with lessons, which can lead to stress and a lack of proper rest. It’s far better for them to return to school when they feel their best and can engage in their education.

Keeping sick children at home benefits everyone. It allows your child to recover fully, prevents the spread of illness, and ensures more effective learning when they return. Your child’s health—and the health of those around them—should always come first.

More Helpful Resources:

• HEAL - General info about common, minor illness in children
• Healthwise Symptom Checker - Check your symptoms using this interactive symptom checker. (This does not replace medical advice from a doctor.)
• 811 Health Link - Health advice or information, 24/7.