“Early childhood providers should examine and revise, as necessary, their current crisis or pandemic plans and procedures; develop contingency plans to cover key positions when staff are absent from work; update contact information for families and staff; and share their plans with families, staff, and the community. Early childhood providers should review and revise, if necessary, their sick leave policies to remove barriers to staff staying home while ill or to care for an ill family member. A doctor’s note should not be required for children or staff to validate their illness or to return to the early childhood setting.

Early childhood providers should frequently remind children, their families, and staff about the importance of staying home when ill; early treatment for people at higher risk for flu complications; hand hygiene; and respiratory etiquette. Educational materials (for example, posters) to enhance compliance with recommendations should be visible in the child care setting. Examples of these materials are available at http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/flyers.htm. ”

The full CDC Guidance on Helping Child Care and Early Childhood Programs Respond to Influenza during the 2009–2010 Influenza Season can be found at: http://www.flu.gov/professional/school/childguidance.html

http://www.cloroxprofessional.com/H1N1/flu_preparedness_programs.html offers a free downloadable poster “Flu Prevention Quick Tips” to print & display at your school, center or daycare.

Finally, bookmark this website as they update frequently with what to do about & to avoid the flu… http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/childcare/index.htm

May good health & happy children & parents & teachers be with all of you this fall & winter!