Pills at School

[Anna Lee]

The other day a student came to class and whispered to me "Teacher, my Dad gave me something for you."

I asked the student to show me and he brought out a tiny pill.
It was Motrin.

I asked the student why his Dad would want me to have a Motrin, the student said, "Well I told him you said the class gave you a headache." The day before I had been stricken with a huge migraine headache and actually had thrown up in a trash can in front of the class.

I told the student that I did not say they gave me a headache, but that I had a headache.

He said, "Well my Mom wanted me to give you one of her Midols".

I did not "turn him in for bringing a pill to class, although that is the "policy" of the school. I was once again reminded at how literal second graders can be. :)

[Boxcar]

Aw, that was sweet of him to want to help.

I would have had a hard time not laughing. I'm sure the child's parents did it as a joke.

[mopar]

I might just give the child's parents a call and let them know that their son brought a pill to school. The parents may have given it to him but he may have just taken one. I'd rather be safe than sorry. And if it was a joke, thank them for their humor and let them know that you have plenty in the nurse's office or something.

[Boxcar]

That's a good point. The parents might need to know that their child has access to the pills. Children don't always understand or think about the consewuences their actions might have. Depending on the child, a second grader might not comprehend that you can get sick if you take too many pills. He may not feel well one day and decide ot take some of the pills to get better fast. He might think a handful would work better than one and get into trouble.

[eaglesaint02]

I'm surpised they trusted him with a pill, they may have regretted it had he chosen to taste the pill himself!

[kingrichie]

I would definately speak to the parents in a kind way and explain the possible dangers in the act.

[Brimir]

If I was in that situation, I would want to talk to the parents right away. I would especially want to explain to them that it was not the class that gave me the headache.

[Chef Dave]

You definitely don't want this kid dispensing medicine to his classmates. What would happen if a 2nd grader took medication meant for an adult? If nothing else, consider your possible liability if it's found out that you were aware that the child has previously brought prescription medication to school.

I hope you notified the parents.

[mopar]

Definitely protect yourself from any liability. I would never want that being thrown back at me.
I had a student bring a pocket knife to school. He tried to cut another students laces. I took the pocket knife away but forgot to go directly to my principal. The principal didn't like getting a call from the other student's parents and not having the details. However, she was very glad that I was aware of the situation and had the knife. We were able to correct the situation before even leaving the building.

[kingrichie]

Always make sure all meds are checked into the office and the nurse will administer.

[teach1027]

I think it was a great gesture on his part, as well as his parents.