1. Purpose & Standards
Young children have developing immune systems and interact closely during sensory and social play. This policy establishes strict hygiene protocols to prevent and control the transmission of infectious illnesses, ensuring a pristine learning environment.
2. Handwashing & Personal Hygiene
Children and staff follow proper handwashing routines with liquid antibacterial soap and warm water:
• Upon arriving at nursery each morning.
• Before handling, serving, or eating food.
• After toileting or nappy changes.
• After blowing noses, coughing, or sneezing.
• After outdoor exploration or messy sensory activities.
3. Daily Sanitization & Surface Care
All toys, learning manipulatives, door handles, tables, and soft play equipment undergo daily disinfection using hospital-grade, child-safe sanitizers. Any mouthed toy is removed immediately to a sanitizing bin before reuse.
4. Illness Exclusion Criteria & Fever Protocol
To protect the entire nursery community, children must remain at home when experiencing:
• Fever (temperature of 37.8°C / 100°F or above) — must be fever-free for a full 24 hours without fever-reducing medication before returning.
• Vomiting or diarrhea — must remain home until 24 to 48 hours symptom-free.
• Contagious rashes, conjunctivitis (pink eye), impetigo, or unexplained sores.
• Medical Clearance: A doctor's certificate of recovery is required prior to re-admission following contagious childhood illnesses.
