Health

At St. Stephen's the health and well-being of the children in our care is one of our main concerns.

Children often appear to be well at the start of the day and become ill quite quickly as the day progresses.  Please keep this in mind when your child has been sick.

Please inform staff if your child has been unwell, as we will keep an eye on them, and respond to any symptoms of illness.

Proof of up to date immunisation is required prior to enrolment. Children that are not fully immunised may be required to stay at home if there is an outbreak of a vaccine preventable disease eg. measles, mumps, whooping cough. The decision to exclude a child from the centre is made in consultation with the Director of the local Public Health Unit.

Infectious Diseases

For further information on common diseases and their exclusions periods, please speak to the Director or go to our website or
www.nhmrc.publications@nhmrc.gov.au.

Why do we exclude sick children?

• To minimise the risk of cross-infection.
• To protect other children and staff.
• So that the sick child is able to have his/her needs met in a more supportive quiet environment.
• Because we do not have the facilities to care for sick children.

When can my Child return Preschool

• When it has been 24 hours since their last episode of vomiting or diarrhoea.
• 24 hours after the start of antibiotics. I.e.: usually 3 doses.
• Upon presentation of a medical certificate to confirm that the child is well enough to return to Preschool after an infectious illness.

Please note: Whilst it is a doctor's role to provide a medical certificate of clearance, ULTIMATELY it is the Director's responsibility to decide if the child is well enough to return to Preschool and fully participate in the programme.  We do not have the facilities or staff to manage children that are unwell.