As parents, ensuring the health and hygiene of your child is essential—especially in group settings like daycare and preschool. One common concern among parents and caregivers is head lice. While lice are not dangerous, they are highly contagious and can spread quickly in childcare environments. At The Country School House, a state-licensed daycare in Clifton, VA, we take proactive steps to prevent and manage lice outbreaks. Here’s what every parent should know.
1. Understanding Head Lice
Head lice are tiny, wingless insects that live on the scalp and feed on blood. They spread through direct head-to-head contact, shared personal items (like combs and hats), or even by resting heads on the same surfaces (pillows, car seats, etc.). While lice do not carry diseases, they can cause itching, discomfort, and frustration for children and parents alike.
2. Signs Your Child May Have Lice
Early detection is key to preventing an outbreak. Look out for these common lice symptoms:
✅ Frequent scratching of the scalp, especially near the neck and behind the ears
✅ Tiny white or yellow nits (eggs) attached to hair strands close to the scalp
✅ Small red bumps from excessive scratching
✅ A crawling sensation on the scalp
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to act quickly to prevent lice from spreading.
3. How to Prevent Lice at Home and Daycare
While lice are common, you can take steps to reduce the risk of an infestation:
🔹 Avoid head-to-head contact – Teach kids to keep personal space, especially during playtime.
🔹 Don’t share personal items – No swapping hats, hair accessories, brushes, or headphones.
🔹 Regularly check your child’s scalp – Early detection makes treatment easier.
🔹 Wash bedding and clothing frequently – Use hot water and a hot dryer cycle to kill any lingering lice.
🔹 Keep long hair tied back – Ponytails, braids, or buns can help prevent lice from spreading in group settings.
At The Country School House, we take lice prevention seriously. We encourage good hygiene practices and notify parents immediately if lice are detected in our daycare.
4. What to Do If Your Child Gets Lice
If your child has lice, don’t panic—there are effective treatments available:
✔ Use an over-the-counter lice treatment shampoo – Follow instructions carefully and use a nit comb to remove eggs.
✔ Wash all recently worn clothing and bedding – Use hot water and high-heat drying.
✔ Disinfect brushes and combs – Soak them in hot water (at least 130°F) for 10 minutes.
✔ Vacuum upholstered furniture and car seats – This helps remove stray lice and nits.
✔ Repeat the treatment after 7-10 days – This ensures that any remaining eggs are eliminated.
Inform your child’s daycare or school so they can take necessary precautions. At The Country School House, we prioritize cleanliness and notify parents immediately if lice are detected.
The Country School House: A Healthy and Safe Childcare Environment
At The Country School House, we are committed to providing a safe, hygienic, and nurturing environment for children. We educate parents and children about best hygiene practices and take swift action to maintain a healthy daycare setting.
