Kids with head lice are now being told to not be sent home from schools, according to new guidance from The American Academy of Pediatrics.

The new approach is to help prevent social stigma and psychological stress.

The AAP says head lice is not a health hazard or a result of poor hygiene. They say lice can not jump or hop and can only crawl.

This means transmission has to happen through head-to-head contact.

Experts say all members of the household should be checked and a child should remain in class, but avoid close contact with others.

School officials should protect the child's confidentiality.

Parents should be notified and talk to their child's pediatrician about how to proceed.