Child with Chest Infection

[Childminder in Kent]

I have missed this one off of my Sickness policy
What is the general thing to do?
The child isnt contagious but was VERY unhappy today with me (has been taken to the Doctor since). I don't want to exclude him as I know it is difficult for parents to get time off work, but equally, i have other children to mind and they need considering too. The time I will 'take away' from them watching the sick child - He really cried everytime I put him down today. Plus we won't be able to go 'out and about' - toddler groups etc with him ill.
I have a good relationship with his parents and they have contacted me asking what they should do for tomorrow.
What does everyone else do/say?
Pat

[Rick]

The child should be at home. Whilst you don't want to exclude him, he is clearly ill and it's not fair on you or the other children.

If I was the parent, I would want to be at home with him.

Don't forget you are a childminder, not a doctor!

[Childminder in Kent]

Thanks Rick_Knight.
Yes.......I know that really. Im sure Mum would like to stay home with him but it's not often that easy is it - and I feel bad!

[Kiddleywinks]

I tell parents if a child is unable to participate in a normal day then they need to stay home.

I have school run to do and for an ill child that'd be a no go for them.

[Childminder in Kent]

Yes, I have a school run to do. Plus we usually go toddler group tomorrow. It would mean that I can't go out if I had him.

[Rick]

Thanks Rick_Knight.
Yes.......I know that really. Im sure Mum would like to stay home with him but it's not often that easy is it - and I feel bad!

I agree, not easy, but the right decision. Although I would understand, I would also be a little upset if I was the parent of one of the other children, paying for a day's care for my child who is unable to go to toddler groups or outside.

[Rick]

Yes, I have a school run to do. Plus we usually go toddler group tomorrow. It would mean that I can't go out if I had him.

I think you have your answer!

[LauraS]

It is in his best interests to be at home as he is clearly not well. I had a chest infection a couple if years ago and felt absolutely awful - there is no way I could have done a school run like that. I know it'd hard for working parents but the child needs to be.home.x

[blue bear]

Why do you say lo us not contagious?
I always still cared for lo's with chest infections until I took my son to the doctor with a chest infection, she said it was very contagious and I should not be minding while he had the chest infection. So now I exclude until chest clear.

[Childminder in Kent]

Thanks for your advice everyone, I will be telling mum to keep him at home.