How do I ask one of my daycare parents to clip their childs nails without offending them? She is always sick and keeps getting my other kids sick, and her nails are so long they tear off and have all kinds of gunk under them, most of which I'm sure is bacteria.
Thanks everyone! I guess the reason I struggled with this is because I only watch two little girls along with my son at my home, so it seemed more personal. Their personal hygiene in general is something I struggle with too, the little girl is 2 1/2 and has the worst case of cradle cap I've ever seen, as well as large mats in her hair from them never brushing it. I am a very cleanly person so it drives me crazy, but I won't say anything as long as it doesn't hurt the other kids I did just email her and say that I read an article about how many virus causing bacteria are under childrens nails, and asked her to make sure her nails were clipped weekly as they all play with the same toys and I want to keep them healthy. She said "Sure you bet" so crisis solved lol =)
Find an article online about nails & spread of germs and print it out & pass it to all the parents upon pick up.
Just say it! It's very common for daycares and preschools to send home a daily report and write on it, "Please Clip Nails!" or "Please clip your child's nails on a weekly basis!" You could do that so everyone gets the message, or you could post a sign (they have one outside every classroom door at my youngest son's preschool) reminding parents to please cut their child's fingernails every week because it's easy for them to scratch themselves, other children and the teachers.
My sister-in-law's pediatrician told her that it's not the scratching of the face that bothers him, it's the potential damage to the eyes that is what is scary about kids with long nails. I would let the childs parents know that this could have some damaging effect on her eyes and see if that doesn't get them to cut her nails. If that doesn't work tell them that she is scratching the other kids and until her nails get cut she can't come back. It's extreme but at least you know that they need your services and will probably do it. Also it wouldn't hurt to have some anti-bacterial gel around for her to use.
Just tell them- it's one of those things that you don't always pick up on if you're rushed. I wouldn't blame it on getting other kids sick b/c you really can't back that one up definitively. You can, however, mention that the little girl has scratched herself and others accidentally, so please keep them clipped!
I've asked parents to keep their childrens' hair pulled back for varied reasons, provide chapstick, whatever. Some people will get offended by anything, but most parents will just do it.
Hi C.,
My daycare lady used to cut my kids nails at nap time while they slept. I loved it! Is that something you would be comfortable with? She would do all the kids once a week at naptime. Just a thought for you...
I would just tell them that you think their child is accidentally scratching herself and it might help them if they clip her nails. Otherwise, if you're willing, ask them if they mind if you clip her nails? I seriously don't think they'll be offended. I sometimes just forget to get around to clipping my kids' nails. At times, I look at my son and think, how did that happen? He's got claws!
Put a note in her cubby and say you are are trying to cut down on germs and bacteria and noticed hers are especially long- ask them to trim them or if they would prefer, you will do it. I had to do that a few times for a child i took care of because her nails were disgusting! Really long and your right, they do get gunky stuff stuck under there---- Good luck!
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"Would you be willing to keep Susy's nails short? It will make it easier for me to help her keep her hands clean. Thanks so much."
I sympathize. I'm really grossed out by long, dirty nails, and also by ears that have visible ear wax. Yuck!
Send out a memo to ALL parents of your preschoolers, suggesting that nails be cut regularly for all of the health and sanitary reasons. Hopefully, the offending childs parents will notice and do something about it. If not, I'd send a short note of "concern" to that childs parents.
