Children in day care centers are often exposed to other children who may be sick. Therefore, children in day care are more likely to develop infections than children who do not go to day care. For example, the risk for respiratory infections, ear infections, and diarrhea are greatest at day care centers. Some studies have also linked asthma to daycare.

However, keep in mind that other studies suggest that being exposed to all the germs in daycare actually IMPROVES your child's immune system.

Teach your child to wash his or her hands before eating and after using the toilet. Infection is spread the most by children putting dirty toys in their mouths, so check your daycare's cleaning practices. Keep your own children home if they are sick.