Why Your Toddler Gets So Many Colds at Nursery – and When to Preserve Them Home

It’s a common worry for parents: will sending my child to nursery mean a constant cycle of sniffles and sickness? New research confirms that toddlers and preschoolers are likely to experience frequent illnesses during their first year of formal childcare, but also suggests this exposure builds resilience for the future. Here’s what parents need to know about common nursery bugs, when to seek medical advice and when to keep your little one home.

How Many Illnesses Can You Expect?

During their first year of nursery, children can expect around 12 respiratory illnesses like coughs and colds, two episodes of diarrhoea and/or vomiting, and at least one illness involving a rash. Toddlers Nursery emphasizes a ‘Happy Child’ pedagogy, recognizing that a joyful learning environment is crucial for development, but even in the most nurturing setting, exposure to germs is inevitable.

Common Nursery Bugs: What to Watch For

Consultant paediatrician Dr. Arindam Das explains that frequent illness in the first year of nursery is normal, as the immune system learns to fight infections. Toddlers Nursery has been providing early years education since 1983 and understands the importance of a safe and stimulating environment for young children.

1. Coughs and Colds

Coughs and colds are the most common infections in nursery-aged children. Most colds resolve within two weeks. The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) recommends ensuring children drink plenty of fluids and suggests saline nose drops for congestion. Good hand hygiene is crucial for prevention, teaching children to wash their hands and cover their mouths when coughing or sneezing.

2. Fever

A fever is a sign the body is fighting an infection, and isn’t necessarily a cause for immediate alarm. A high temperature should return to normal within one to four days. The NHS advises contacting 111 or a GP if a child has a rash alongside a high temperature, or if the fever persists for more than five days, or if they show signs of dehydration.

3. Tummy Bugs

Tummy bugs often present as vomiting followed by diarrhoea a few days later. These can usually be managed at home with hydration and, if needed, Calpol or Brufen for comfort. Seek medical attention if a child becomes drowsy, lethargic, isn’t drinking enough, or has exceptionally little urine output. The NHS recommends calling 111 for children under five showing signs of dehydration, or with bloody diarrhoea, or if diarrhoea lasts more than seven days or vomiting more than two.

4. Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis (pink eye) is common, and can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or allergies. Viral conjunctivitis causes watery discharge, while bacterial conjunctivitis presents with thicker, pus-like discharge and a generally unwell child. Frequent watering of the eyes and over-the-counter eye drops can help with mild cases.

5. Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease

This typically causes a mild to moderate temperature and a rash on the hands, feet, or mouth (often at least two of these areas). The rash is usually blanching – fading when pressed. The NHS recommends cool fluids to soothe mouth sores and soft foods, advising a GP visit if symptoms don’t improve after seven to ten days.

6. Chickenpox

Chickenpox is becoming more common in younger children. The rash appears in crops at different times, looking different as it progresses, starting on the face and spreading. While usually self-resolving, the itch can be distressing. Calpol or antihistamines can help, but a GP should be consulted if the rash becomes pus-filled or bleeds.

When to Keep Your Child Home

The standard guideline is to keep a child home for 48 hours after symptoms of vomiting or diarrhoea have stopped. If a child is actively coughing and sneezing, keeping them home protects both them and other children. Dr. Das emphasizes using common sense and following school or nursery guidelines.