Pink Eye Daycare Policy: When Kids Can Return

Pink eye (conjunctivitis) is redness and swelling of the thin layer covering the white of the eye. In young children it is usually caused by a virus or bacteria, and sometimes by allergies. Pediatric guidelines say most children with pink eye do not need to stay home once they feel well, but many daycares have their own rule, such as 24 hours on antibiotic drops or no more discharge. Always check your center's policy.

Here is how to tell the types apart and what to do.

Types of pink eye

Viral pink eye

Often comes with a cold
Watery discharge, red eyes
May start in one eye and spread to the other
Lasts about 1 to 2 weeks and goes away on its own

Bacterial pink eye

Thick yellow or green discharge
Eyelids stuck together after sleep
Often in one eye at first
Sometimes comes with an ear infection

Allergic pink eye

Itchy, watery eyes in both eyes
Often with sneezing and a runny nose
Not contagious

When can my child go back to daycare?

Common daycare rules include:

For bacterial pink eye: return after 24 hours of antibiotic drops or ointment, if prescribed
For any type: return when there is no thick discharge and your child is not rubbing their eyes constantly
With fever or other illness: stay home until fever-free for 24 hours

Some centers ask for a note from a doctor. Since not all pink eye needs antibiotics, ask your pediatrician what your child needs, and share the answer with the center.

Does my child need eye drops?

Viral pink eye does not improve with antibiotics. Bacterial pink eye usually gets better on its own too, but antibiotic drops can shorten it and are often required for daycare return. Your pediatrician can tell you which type your child likely has.

Tips for drops:

Wash your hands before and after.
Have your child lie down and close their eyes.
Put the drop in the inner corner of the eye, then have your child open their eyes so it rolls in.
Do not touch the eye with the bottle tip.

When to see a doctor

Any redness or discharge in a newborn
Eye pain, not only itching
Sensitivity to light or changes in vision
Swelling or redness of the eyelid and skin around the eye
Fever with eye swelling
No improvement after a few days, or symptoms getting worse
An injury to the eye or something stuck in it

Home care

Gently wipe discharge with a clean, warm, damp washcloth, from the inside corner out.
Use a fresh cloth for each eye.
Cool compresses can soothe itching.
Keep hands away from the eyes and trim nails short.

Preventing the spread

Wash hands often, especially after touching the eyes.
Do not share towels, washcloths or pillows.
Wash pillowcases and towels in hot water.
Throw away tissues right after use.
Clean toys your child has handled.

Pink eye often travels with colds. Our article on how often daycare kids get sick explains why the first year in group care brings so many of them.

Frequently asked questions

Is pink eye contagious at daycare?

Viral and bacterial pink eye are contagious. Allergic pink eye is not.

Can my child go to daycare with pink eye?

Many centers allow return after 24 hours of antibiotic drops for bacterial pink eye, or once discharge clears. Check your center's rule.

How long does pink eye last?

Viral pink eye usually lasts 1 to 2 weeks. Bacterial pink eye often improves within a few days with drops.

Can adults catch pink eye from kids?

Yes. Wash your hands after helping your child with their eyes.

Health and safety at Children's Land

At Children's Land, if a child becomes sick during the day, they rest away from other children and our director calls your emergency contact. Read our FAQ or find a location.

Pink Eye Daycare Policy: When Kids Can Return