What action should be taken when a child shows the first sign of illness?

When a child shows the first sign of illness, separating them and supervising accordingly is the most appropriate action to take. This approach helps to ensure the child's comfort, provides a safe environment, and prevents the potential spread of illness to other children in the program. By separating the child, staff can closely monitor their symptoms, provide support, and make informed decisions about next steps, such as notifying parents or guardians.

This strategy also allows staff to maintain a focus on the health and safety of all the children in the program while addressing the needs of the child who is showing signs of illness. Providing supportive supervision ensures that the child feels cared for and can receive appropriate attention without disrupting the overall environment of the afterschool program.