Today's Tip for Families

[En español]

2026-01-12

What Should You Do When Your Child is Sick?

Research shows that regular attendance improves student success. But when a fever, sore throat or something worse strikes, you probably need to keep your child at home.

When illness keeps your elementary schooler at home:

• Take care of your child. But don’t make staying home such a treat that your child decides it would be fun to miss more days of school.
• Follow the school’s health protocols. If you’re supposed to call to say that your child will be absent, call. If your child needs a doctor’s note, supply it.
• Read together. Don’t let your child spend a sick day in front of a screen. This is a perfect time to dig out a favorite longer book and read it together.
• Contact the teacher if your child will miss more than one or two days of school. Many teachers will send home the work your child is missing. Or it may be possible for your student to attend class online. That way, your child won’t be overwhelmed upon returning to school.

Brought to you by:

Vidalia City Schools

[School Success Ideas for Families]

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