Parenting & Childcare Blog | Children's Land

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Infants

RSV and Daycare: Policy, Babies and When to Return

RSV is a common winter virus that can be serious for young babies. Here is what RSV looks like in infants and toddlers, which breathing signs need a doctor right away, when children can usually return to daycare, and the 2026-27 options to protect babies before their first RSV season.

Children showing their paint-covered hands

Toddler

Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease: Daycare Policy and Return

Hand, foot and mouth disease is common in daycare, especially in summer and fall. Here is what the rash and mouth sores look like, how long children are contagious, when they can usually go back to daycare, how to ease pain at home and which signs mean you should call the doctor.

Two young boys playing with toys together

Toddler

Stomach Bug and Daycare: Policy and When Kids Can Go Back

Stomach bugs spread quickly through daycare classrooms. Here is when children usually need to stay home, the common 24-hour rule, signs of dehydration to watch for, how long these viruses are contagious, and the cleaning and handwashing steps that help stop the spread at home.

Infant classroom with cribs and soft play area

Infants

Illinois Parental Leave and Going Back to Work After a Baby

Illinois does not have a state paid family leave program, but several laws protect new parents. Here is what FMLA, the Paid Leave for All Workers Act, Chicago's leave ordinance, the new NICU leave law and pumping rights cover in 2026, plus a practical plan for going back to work.

Kindergarten

Illinois Kindergarten Health Requirements: Exams and Forms

Before kindergarten, Illinois children need a physical exam, required vaccines, an eye exam and a dental exam, each with its own deadline and state form. Here is a simple checklist of what is due when, what each exam covers, and how to plan appointments so nothing is late.