The initial joy of sending kids back to school often fades quickly. Once they’re back in the classroom, it’s only a matter of time before they start coughing, sneezing, and sharing germs. Next thing you know, they’re home with colds, fevers, stuffy noses, and sore throats.
Since the school year kicked off a few weeks ago, my two oldest kids have been home sick with viruses that make everyone miserable. As the designated caregiver, I’ve had ample opportunity to notice that I typically navigate through these seven stages:
- Denial. One morning, my son woke up with a stuffy nose, scratchy throat, and a general sense of malaise. My first instinct? Could it be just a fluke? Maybe he slept funny or something? I check his temperature—no fever! That’s a relief. I encourage him to drink something, eat breakfast, and hop in the shower. I even hand him an adult-sized dose of cold medicine, convinced he’ll perk up before school. Right?
- Acceptance with a dash of panic. An hour later, the school nurse calls to report that my son is in her office, again complaining of a stuffy nose and scratchy throat. Oops—guess he really is sick. I pick him up and settle him into the couch with a blanket, some ice water, and the remote. All my plans for the day? Canceled.
- Hope. At this point, I’m hoping this virus will be a short-lived 24-hour bug. I keep the fluids coming, offer popsicles and soup, and even splurge on a movie or two. Fingers crossed he’ll bounce back quickly!
- Love and concern. I check in on my son frequently, offering him saltines, chicken noodle soup, and the chance to watch TV in bed. I bring him cool compresses and administer medicine every few hours, all while listening to his complaints. I try to stay calm and loving, but this stage usually lasts just a day or two before I inevitably descend into…
- Anger. By the third day, the thermometer reads 103°F, and there’s a distinctly unpleasant smell wafting from the bathroom. The cold and flu meds are running low, and soup supplies have vanished. I’m over it! After calling the doctor and being told it sounds like a virus, I hang up feeling frustrated. They remind me that viruses can last anywhere from 5 to 7 days, and no, I can’t have antibiotics. Seriously, why can’t someone invent a cure for the common cold?
- Depression. Four days of being cooped up at home with no interaction other than my husband and kids is starting to take its toll. I’m living in pajamas, glued to the couch while Nickelodeon blares in the background. My child shows no signs of improvement, and scrolling through social media reveals that others are living their best lives. Ugh. The prospect of back-to-school night suddenly feels like a welcome escape.
- Joy! Just when I think we’ve hit rock bottom, my son comes downstairs proclaiming he feels much better! We celebrate this milestone with a high-five, and I send him off for a shower while I step outside to soak in some sunshine.
Of course, just when I think we’ve turned the corner, I glance over at my youngest and see those telltale signs of pink eye. Back to square one—nooooooo!
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In summary, navigating the sickness rollercoaster with kids can be a challenging journey, often filled with denial, panic, and even joy, as we all hope for a speedy recovery and a return to normalcy.
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