What Are Some Reasons to Stay Home From School?

Fever

• A child who exhibits signs of a fever should be kept home from school. A fever is usually a sign that an infection or virus is running through the body, leaving a chance that the illness could be spread to other students. Children who have a fever of 100 degrees or more should not be allowed to go to school until after it has dropped.

Lice

• Head lice is a huge problem in school, and many times children who exhibit signs of lice infestations are asked to stay home in order to prevent the spreading of lice to other children. In general, removing head lice can be a lengthy process, and parents should speak to school administrators about when it is safe for the child to return to school.

Severe Pain

• A child who is in severe pain that is not the result of a broken bone or obvious injury should be taken to either the hospital or a primary care doctor, rather than sent to school. Pain in areas such as the abdomen can be a sign of a serious medical emergency, such as an appendicitis. Sending a child who is in pain to school can be a costly mistake.

Divorce or Death in the Family

• The death of a friend or family member is difficult to deal with at any age and can be especially difficult for children. Students who have experienced a recent loss should not be expected to return to school until they are in the proper frame of mind, as the stress of attending classes can often be counterproductive to the recovery process. The same principles should be applied in the case of divorce between a student's parents.

Religious Holidays

• In most school systems, it is understood that a child should be granted absence from school in order to observe a religious holiday. The decision to stay home from school for this reason is up to the parent, although it is wise to check with school officials regarding their stance on absence for observance.

Family Events

• Keeping a child out of school for the occasional family event is usually an acceptable practice. So long as it does not become a regular occurrence, most school officials understand that important family events often take precedent and allow students to be absent for a day or two.