Posted on 01/22/2018
Somewhere along the line, we realize that our ideal plan doesn't often happen. Wise parenting includes having a "Plan B" at the ready for such times. I like to call it my "bag of tricks." One of those less-than-ideal but equally unavoidable aspects of parenting is having sick kids. Of course, there are times when a visit to the doctor and major TLC are absolutely necessary. But then there are the other times. You know, when they don't require hospitalization or constant care, but you have to stay home with them. This post is for those kinds of days.
Special Things
Somewhere between actually making your kids wish they could be sick all the time and adding insult to injury, you can create some special sick day traditions, including some special things that only come out on just such days. Here are some items that can provide a little extra comfort, made extra-special since they're brought out only in case of illness. I like to include items from when my kids were younger; sometimes, a once-loved pillow, blanket, book, or toy can bring back memories that big kids don't slow down enough to appreciate unless they're under the weather. In that same vein, this might be just the time to bring out a baby book or photo album, reminding your child of how precious he or she is — and has always been — to you. Especially if you need to work from home, those sentimental reminders can provide the extra comfort your child needs from you, without your constant engagement.
Low-Key Diversions
Despite the growing list of risks associated with too much screen time, we get it: being sick means being pretty sedentary. At the same time, though, light-emitting screens can disrupt the body's melatonin production, inhibiting sleep. Not only do sick kids need to rest their bodies; they also need actual sleep.
For a screen-free diversion, have a few audio books downloaded to a device. You could also pair each book with something to keep hands busy — without requiring too much work. Below are some suggestions, according to age (all of which can be found on Amazon):
• Toddlers or preschoolers: Water Wow
• Preschoolers through younger grades: Color Wonder book
• Any age: a magnetic doodle pad
• Older kids: a traditional sketch pad and a set of special new colored pencils
Soothing Rhythms
While you have work of your own to get done, consider setting a timer to check on your sick kiddo every hour or half hour, depending on his or her needs. If your child is soothed by physical touch, offer a back rub or a hug. If the tissue box needs to be replaced or a heating pad rewarmed, you could also take care of those things then. If you notice that your child is ready to drift off, you can dim the lighting and play some soft music and maybe light a candle too.
The Bedroom Source
Located near the Roosevelt Field Mall on Long Island, The Bedroom Source is your source for the best collection of childrens and teen bedroom furniture. From flexibly configurable Maxtrix furniture to fashionable Smartstuff collections, The Bedroom Source offers high end furniture and professional design assistance to create the bedroom of your childs dreams.
Contact the friendly staff at The Bedroom Source by calling (516) 248-0600 or by submitting our online contact form. Were a local family owned mom & pop store. When you shop with us, youre dealing directly with the owners. We professionally assemble everything we sell. We deliver to Nassau, Suffolk, the 5 Boroughs, Southern Westchester, Southwestern Connecticut & Northern New Jersey.