Many children need to take medications during the school day. A child may take a medication regularly, such as Ritalin for attention deficit disorder, or have a medication that they use only at certain times, such as an inhaler for asthma attacks.
Even if your child doesn’t currently take any medications, it’s likely they will need to some point, even if it’s just for a few days—maybe an antibiotic, or an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
As a parent or guardian, you should know your school’s medication policy. You may be able to find the policy on the school’s website or in the student handbook. The policy will include information about:
- Forms you or your doctor need to fill out
- When your child needs a doctor’s note for the medication
- Who can drop off the medication at the nurse’s office
- What types of packaging are OK
- Who is allowed to give your child medication
- What happens if your child refuses to take the medication
Remember that medication is the top cause of poisoning among all age groups. For tips on prevention these poisonings, see our medication page.
