What to Do If a Child Is Exposed to Head Lice

Just reading the words “head lice” might make your scalp start itching—but if your child has been exposed, don’t panic. While head lice are certainly unpleasant, they’re not dangerous, and with the right approach, you can stop them in their tracks. Here’s exactly what to do if your child has been around someone with lice, including how to prevent an outbreak at home.

Step 1: Stay Calm and Don’t Shame

First and foremost—head lice are not a sign of being dirty or neglected. They’re incredibly common, especially among children aged 3 to 12. Lice spread through close contact, not through poor hygiene.

Step 2: Check for Signs of Lice

Use a fine-tooth nit comb and examine your child’s scalp under bright light.

What to Look For:

• Nits (eggs): Tiny, oval, white or yellowish specks attached to hair near the scalp.
• Live lice: Small, wingless bugs that crawl quickly and avoid light.
• Itching or scratching: Often behind the ears and at the nape of the neck.
• Sores or red bumps: These can form from excessive scratching.

If you find live lice or nits, move straight to treatment. If not, continue to monitor for the next 7–10 days.

Step 3: Inform School or Caregivers

If your child has been exposed or infected, inform their teacher, school, or daycare. This helps stop the spread and allows other parents to check their children.

Step 4: Treat If Necessary

If you spot live lice or nits:

Choose a Treatment Option:

• Over-the-counter lice shampoos (containing permethrin or pyrethrins)
• Prescription treatments for resistant lice
• Natural remedies like tea tree oil (note: less proven, but popular)

Important Tips:

• Follow instructions exactly
• Comb hair thoroughly after treatment to remove dead lice and nits
• Repeat treatment in 7–10 days if needed
• Keep the treatment in a safe place, away from children

Step 5: Clean and Prevent Reinfestation

Lice don’t live long off the scalp, but it’s still smart and advisable to clean personal items.

What to Wash:

• Bedding and pillowcases
• Hats, scarves, and hoodies
• Hairbrushes and combs (soak in hot water for 10+ minutes)
• Towels and jackets

What to Avoid:

• Fumigating or using harsh insecticides in the home—they’re unnecessary and can be toxic.

Step 6: Prevent Future Spread

Teach These Habits:

• Avoid sharing hats, brushes, or hair accessories
• Tie up long hair for school or playdates
• Do regular head checks at home (especially after playdates or outbreaks)

Conclusion

Head lice exposure can be frustrating, but with early detection, proper treatment, and prevention, you can keep your home lice-free. Don’t let embarrassment or panic get in the way—this is a parenting moment, not a crisis. Stay calm, act quickly, and keep those combs ready.

FAQs

Can my child go to school with head lice?

Policies vary, but many schools now allow children to attend as long as treatment has begun. Always check your school’s policy.

Do lice jump from head to head?

Nope. They crawl, which is why they spread through close contact like hugging or sharing a bed.

How long can lice live off the scalp?

Usually less than 48 hours. Nits need body heat to survive, so most lice won’t live long on furniture or bedding.

What’s the best lice treatment?

Permethrin-based shampoos are highly effective, but some parents prefer natural oils. The key is proper use and combing.

How do I know if the lice are gone?

No more live lice should be visible after treatment. Continue combing daily for a week to remove any remaining nits.