What happens if my child gets sick at childcare (and when will I be called)?

One of the biggest worries for parents starting childcare is: “What actually happens if my child gets sick while I’m not there?”. Childcare services follow clear health and safety guidelines and will always contact you if your child needs extra care or to go home.

While nothing replaces a cuddle from you, educators are trained to recognise when something isn’t quite right and respond quickly and appropriately. They are responsible for:

• monitoring your child’s wellbeing
• responding to illness or injury
• administering medication safely (when required)
• contacting you if your child needs additional care

In most cases, it’s about balancing your child’s comfort with what can reasonably be managed in a group setting.

Do childcare educators have first aid training?

Short answer: yes - there is always someone trained in first aid on site. Under Australia’s National Regulations:

• At least one educator must hold current:
  • first aid training
  • anaphylaxis management training
  • emergency asthma management training
• In family day care, every educator must hold these qualifications

All training must be kept up to date.

What this means for you:
Parents can feel reassured knowing there is always someone who can respond to:

• allergic reactions
• asthma attacks
• injuries or accidents

Just as importantly, educators are trained to recognise when a situation needs to be escalated, whether that’s contacting you or calling emergency services.

Can childcare give my child medication?

Short answer: yes - but only with your consent and under strict procedures.

Medication can be given if:

• you provide written authorisation
• it’s in original packaging with the child’s name
• clear dosage instructions are provided

Educators must:

• follow strict medication procedures
• double-check details carefully
• often have a second educator verify the dose
• record all medication given and inform you

What about emergencies?

In situations like asthma or anaphylaxis:

• medication may be given immediately
• emergency services may be called
• you’ll be contacted as soon as possible

Medication is handled carefully, with safety always the priority.

Can childcare educators give my child Panadol?

Usually, yes - but under the same strict rules as any medication.

Paracetamol (like Panadol) can only be given if:

• you’ve provided written consent
• it’s supplied by you
• it’s in original packaging
• clear instructions are provided

Important to know

Panadol is not used:

• “just in case”
• or to keep an unwell child at care

If a child needs medication to stay comfortable, it may be a sign they are too unwell to remain in care.

In these situations, services may:

• administer a dose (with your consent)
• contact you to discuss your child’s condition
• ask you to collect your child

Will childcare check my child’s temperature?

Yes - but it’s only one part of the bigger picture.

If your child seems unwell, educators may:

• check their temperature
• observe behaviour and energy levels
• monitor symptoms over time

A fever is generally considered 38°C or higher, but…

Educators don’t rely on temperature alone. 

They also consider:

• your child’s comfort
• their ability to participate
• behaviour and mood

This is why you might get a call even if your child doesn’t have a high fever - educators are looking at overall wellbeing.

When will childcare call me to pick my child up?

Short answer: when your child is too unwell to comfortably or safely stay in care.

You’ll usually be contacted if your child:

• appears significantly unwell
• can’t participate in normal activities
• needs more care than can be provided in a group setting
• shows symptoms of a potentially infectious illness

You may also get a call if:

• their condition changes during the day
• medication has been given and follow-up is needed
• there’s been an incident or concern

A quick reality check

The goal isn’t to send children home unnecessarily. It’s to balance:

• your child’s comfort
• the health of other children
• what can reasonably be managed in a group setting

The bigger picture for parents

It’s completely normal to feel unsure about how your child will be cared for when they’re unwell. But childcare services operate under clear national standards that ensure:

• educators are trained in first aid and emergency response
• medication is handled safely and with consent
• children’s health is monitored throughout the day
• parents are kept informed when something changes

You’re not navigating this alone - your childcare service is there to work with you and keep your child safe.