Podcast Show Notes: Managing Illness in Your Family Day Care Episode Summary: In this episode of the Big Hearted Podcast, I discuss managing illness in family day care services. I provide practical tips on setting boundaries, communicating with parents, and implementing a wellness policy to protect both educators and children. I share insights on the importance of rest, nutrition, and outdoor play for children's health and offer a free wellness policy template for listeners. Key Points: Setting Boundaries and Holding the Space: Educators have the right to refuse care for unwell children. Clear communication with parents about the child’s health is essential. Establishing a wellness policy helps set expectations upfront. Recognising and Managing Illness: Be alert to symptoms such as glassy eyes, green snot, and warmth to touch. Have honest conversations with parents about their child’s well-being. Encourage parents to keep children home if they’re not coping. Importance of Mental Health Days: Children sometimes need a break due to overwhelming emotions and experiences. A day of rest can prevent prolonged illness and support overall well-being. Environmental and Nutritional Factors: Children need freedom to run, play outside, and engage with their environment. Advocating for nutritious, whole foods over processed snacks can boost immunity. Implementing a Wellness Policy: A downloadable wellness policy template is available for educators. The policy includes parent acknowledgment of illness protocols and alternative care arrangements. Building Trust with Families: Consistently enforcing the wellness policy helps build trust. Clear boundaries ensure the health and safety of all children in care. Regulatory Compliance: Adhere to health and safety regulations to avoid legal implications. Report communicable diseases to health authorities as required. Impact on Child Development: Frequent illnesses can disrupt learning and social development. Healthy children are more likely to engage and thrive in educational activities. Downloadable Resource: Free Wellness Policy Template: Available for download on the podcast website. This template helps set clear boundaries and expectations for illness management in family day care. Call to Action: Feedback and Suggestions: Victoria encourages listeners to share their thoughts and suggest topics for future episodes. Review the Podcast: Leave a review on your preferred podcast platform to help spread the word and build the community. Connect with Us: Hashtags: #bigheartededucation #bigheartedpodcast #FDC #FDCeducator #wellnesspolicy #childcare #earlychildhoodeducation