Lice are tiny little brown bugs that live on human scalps. They
are nuisances, but are otherwise not harmful to children. They
can cause itching, but they don't carry disease. If your child
is scratching his or her head a lot, it's time for a scalp
check. First look at the hairline, then near the ears and the
nape of the neck. If you find lice or eggs called gnits, which
look either white or clear, it's time to get treated. Over the
counter medications are best to try first before going to a
prescription strength topical medication. Home remedies, as long
as they are safe, and not flammable . Lice don't fly or jump and
they are usually transmitted by head to head contact. Remember
getting lice is not a sign of poor hygiene or a reflection of
socio-economic status. It's a case of bad luck. The child's head
was in the wrong place at the wrong time and they happened to
get lice from somebody else.