Children in daycare often have immune systems that are still developing — they're just at that age. That's why it's important to take some extra steps to ensure your child stays healthy out in the world around other kids during the day. Use these tips to help your little one stay happy and healthy in daycare.

• Ensure that the daycare you enroll your child in meets required health standards. Most state-licensed daycare centers have workers who are periodically trained by healthcare professionals or knowledgeable social workers.
• A good daycare should have professional, experienced caregivers who give children their constant attention. The recommended caregiver to children ratio is 1:3 for infants and 1:7 for kids above age 3.
• Educate your child on proper hand hygiene. Washing hands is the simplest way to fight germs. In addition, spend some time at the daycare to observe how the caregivers handle cleanup processes.
• Get your child vaccinated to boost their immune system. In addition, find out if kids and workers at the daycare are vaccinated against common diseases. Most daycare centers ask for vaccination records before enrolling kids.
• Learn about the daycare’s illness policies. Most daycares have rules on how to handle a sick child. If the daycare recommends some time off for your child to recuperate, respect that policy. In addition, seek a doctor’s advice in case you suspect your child is about to fall sick.

Getting sick is an inevitable part of growing up. Nevertheless, you can still protect your child from illness while they're attending daycare. Be sure to teach your child about simple hygiene tips to protect them from contagious and infectious diseases. In addition, enroll your child in a good daycare that has high standards of hygiene.