How to Check for Lice at Summer Camp
A practical training guide for arrival-day lice screening, station setup, rapid checks, and the exact protocol to follow if lice or nits are found.
Head Lice Spreads Through Head-to-Head Contact in a Camp Setting
A proper comb-based check at arrival helps catch concerns early, protects campers, and protects Camp Ernst from being blamed for lice that came in from outside.
A child can have lice for roughly two to four weeks before anyone notices it. If they arrive at camp and recently picked up lice, it can be very hard to spot with only a visual check.
Once missed, that child may stay at camp for the week and have time to spread lice to others. When lice is discovered later, the camp often gets blamed because the visual check cleared them at arrival.
Most people have been taught to check by looking for white specks in the hair. That method does not work well. Lice and nits are dark in color, so they blend in and are often missed.
Staff Page Sections
Quick Reminder
- Use good lighting
- Use a Terminator comb
- Wipe on white paper towel
- Nits and lice are dark
- Remove positive combs from use
- Keep the child separate and private
About Camp Ernst
Interested in camp programs, registration, or year-round opportunities? Visit Camp Ernst directly for official camp information.
Learn More About Camp ErnstSet Up the Head Lice Checking Station Before Campers Arrive
Because staff may need to check hundreds of kids in a short amount of time, the station should be organized before the first cabin arrives.
Watch the Station Setup Walkthrough
This video shows how to set up the head lice checking station so checks move faster, stay consistent, and give staff a clear workflow.
Station Supply Checklist
- Folding table outside in good lighting but under cover
- Nit-Free Terminator combs for staff use
- Rubbing alcohol to soak combs between kids
- White Viva paper towels — purple and green packaging works best
- Plastic resealable bags for combs that find lice
- Cabin checklist to track which cabins have come through
Need Simplicety?
If on-site treatment is chosen, the parent should call Simplicety directly so the team can collect information, process payment, and explain the next steps.
Call 859-414-6487How to Check for Lice at Camp
For arrival day, use a fast, focused rapid screen that covers the key areas with a good lice comb.
Watch the Real-Time Rapid Screen
This video shows the camp screening method in real time so staff can follow the same consistent checking pattern.
Right Temple
Start with the comb at the right temple, with your free hand positioned at the nape of the neck. Work front to back with three overlapping swipes up the side, applying firm pressure to the scalp.
Back of the Neck
Move around to the back of the neck and work all the way across from right to left in overlapping strokes.
Left Temple
Go to the left temple and repeat the same pattern. Keep the free hand at the nape of the neck and work front to back with three overlapping swipes up the side.
Crown of the Head
Finish by parting the hair down the crown and checking that area thoroughly. This is often the first hot spot when lice is new.
Wipe and Review
Wipe the comb on a white paper towel after the main sections. You do not need to wipe after every single stroke.
If You Find Something
If you see live lice or dark nits stuck to the hair or on the paper towel, pull that child aside for a closer look. Do not send them through with the rest of their cabin until you are sure.
What You Are Looking For
- Live lice
- Dark nits stuck to hair
- Evidence on the white paper towel
What to Do If Lice Is Found
If lice or nits are found during a check, use this calm, private process so the situation is handled consistently.
Remove the Comb from Circulation
Place the comb and the white paper towel with the evidence into a resealable bag. Label it and set it aside so it is no longer used on other children.
Pull the Child Aside
Quietly separate the child from their cabin and bring them to the designated area.
Contact the Camp Nurse Immediately
The nurse will then contact the child's parents to let them know lice was found.
Explain the Options to the Parents
Parents should be given the two choices below: home treatment or on-site treatment by Simplicety if available.
If the Parent Chooses On-Site Treatment
Instruct the parent to call Simplicety directly at 859-414-6487. This allows Simplicety to get their information, take payment, and fully educate them on what is happening.
The parent can come pick up their child and treat at home. The child must be completely nit-free to return to camp.
If available, the child can be treated on-site by Simplicety. The child can stay at camp once treatment is complete.
Interested in joining Camp Ernst?
Learn more about YMCA Camp Ernst programs, registration, family resources, and year-round camp opportunities through the official Camp Ernst website.
Professional Guidance and At-Home Support for Camp Ernst Families
Use these support options when families need help with checking, removal, treatment tools, or more lice education.
Get support from Simplicety's professional head lice service for accurate checking, lice and nit removal, and follow-up guidance.
View ServicesShop the at-home treatment kit and tools Pete recommends for families who need clear, practical support at home.
Shop Amazon StoreReturn to Simplicety At Home's education hub for more lice education, prevention tips, and parent resources.
Education Corner