If you’ve ever received the dreaded school letter or noticed your child scratching their head more than usual, you’re not alone. Lice infestations are one of the most common concerns for parents, so much so that “Why does my child keep getting lice?” remains one of the most searched parenting questions on Google.
The good news? While lice can be annoying, they’re not a sign of poor hygiene, and they can be managed with the right knowledge and care. Here’s everything you need to know about what lice are, why they spread so easily among kids, and how to prevent recurring infestations.
What Are Lice?
Head lice are tiny, wingless insects that live on the human scalp and feed on small amounts of blood. They are about the size of a sesame seed, and their eggs (called nits) are even smaller, clinging to strands of hair near the scalp.
Lice do not carry diseases, but can cause intense itching and discomfort. Scratching can also lead to skin irritation or minor infections if the scalp becomes broken.
How Do Children Get Lice?
Children are especially prone to getting lice because of how easily lice are transmitted. Head lice spread through direct head-to-head contact, which is common in settings like:
- Schools and crèches
- Playdates and sleepovers
- Sports practices or camps
- Shared naps or storytime on communal carpets or couches
Lice don’t jump or fly, they crawl. But they’re fast movers and can transfer easily when kids are in close contact. Occasionally, lice can spread through shared items like hairbrushes, hats, helmets, or pillows, although this is less common.
Why Does It Keep Coming Back?
Even after treatment, lice can return if:
- Not all lice or nits were killed during the first treatment round.
- Close contacts (siblings, classmates, friends) were not checked or treated at the same time.
- Shared items were not disinfected or were used too soon after exposure.
- New exposure happens soon after the last infestation, especially in group environments.
Recurring lice isn’t necessarily about your child’s habits, it’s often due to untreated cases in their immediate circle.
Tips to Prevent Lice
While there’s no guaranteed way to avoid lice entirely, there are steps you can take to reduce your child’s chances of picking them up (again):
1. Teach “no head-to-head” contact
Encourage kids to avoid putting their heads together when sitting, playing, or taking selfies.
2. Avoid sharing hair accessories and hats
Remind your child not to share brushes, combs, hats, hairbands, or towels.
3. Tie up long hair
Keeping hair tied in a ponytail or braid can make it harder for lice to crawl onto the scalp.
4. Check regularly
Do a weekly scalp check, especially after reports of lice at school. Look for small white or yellowish nits near the scalp, usually behind the ears or at the nape of the neck.
5. Keep lice treatment products on hand
At the first sign of lice, act quickly with a reliable treatment and follow it up with a second application 7–10 days later to kill any newly hatched lice.
6. Wash and isolate shared items
Wash bedding, hats, and clothes in hot water. Vacuum any furniture or rugs where your child rests their head frequently.
When to See a Doctor
If lice persist despite treatment, or if your child has a severe reaction (such as an allergic rash or skin infection), it’s best to consult a healthcare provider. They can recommend stronger treatments or ensure there’s no underlying skin condition mimicking lice symptoms.
Lice can be frustrating, but they’re a common part of childhood and nothing to be embarrassed about. With early detection, consistent checks, and good prevention habits, you can keep those itchy invaders at bay and make life a little less scratchy.