Call in the Reinforcements
In some cases, the working parent may be able to stay
home and help with the kids, but often this is not a feasible
option. “Don’t be too proud to call in reinforcements
if necessary!” says Becky Baldridge. Ask friends and
family to take the kids to school or help cook dinner.
Most friends are willing to help, especially if you offer to
return the favor in the future.
Simplify Meals
For a sick parent, feeding the family can be a huge
challenge. Keep it simple by ordering take out, raiding
the freezer, or letting the kids eat cereal for dinner. “I’ve
had my husband order, pay for, and have pizza delivered
from work, because when I’m sick preparing meals is
impossible.” says Rodganna Avery, mom of three.
Let go of “Normal”
Many families limit the amount of screen time their
children are allowed each day, but when mom or dad is
sick it’s okay to relax the rules. “I let them watch TV
all day and I lay on the couch and sleep. I feel better the
next day because I get rest.” says LouAnn Cunningham.
Allowing extra TV or video game time helps to entertain
the kids so the parent can rest. Mother of six, Chrissy
Roussel says “When you are sick, just focus on making
sure they’re fed and changed. Let go of the ‘normal’
parenting rules for a few days”. It won’t hurt the kids to
have one or two days of extra screen time, and they will
probably enjoy it as well.
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