When my child comes home from school—or stays home because they’re sick—it usually means they’ve either got a fever or are throwing up. And what do we do at home? They have two choices: lounge on the couch in front of the TV or crawl into bed for some much-needed rest. That’s it.
You can bet there won’t be any “feel better” gifts from the dollar store waiting for them. No arts and crafts sessions, no whimsical teas in character mugs, and absolutely no elaborate hideouts to spice up the boredom. Forget scavenger hunts, charades, or any themed bonding activities. Forget the hair braiding and faux tattoos. There will be no fun to be had.
When did a sick child at home become an excuse for moms to throw a party? This isn’t an opportunity to celebrate a cold or come up with new ways to connect. When a child is unwell, the focus should be on rest. They should be sipping soup and sticking to the couch, watching TV or flipping through a book if they have the energy. Better yet, if they’re well enough to run around the house, they should be well enough to return to school.
Trust me, my kids despise their sick days. Our home is not a paradise for them to create finger-paint masterpieces while I play the role of an overly enthusiastic caregiver. Because guess what? Kids don’t need to be entertained every single moment. Being ill with the flu, a cold, or some stomach bug is not a reason for elaborate distractions.
It’s frustrating to witness parents treating their kids like they’re little royalty requiring extravagant entertainment to feel good. From absurd birthday parties complete with goody bags to participation trophies and yearly graduation celebrations, it all contributes to a culture of entitlement. These practices generate kids who lack a solid work ethic and appreciation for the little things. In short, it fosters a generation of brats.
So, no online magazine is going to drive me nuts trying to create magic for my sick child. I won’t be decorating with crepe paper or baking a “feel better” cake. I definitely won’t stockpile toys and games to ensure my kid feels loved while they battle the sniffles.
Instead, I’ll heat up some soup, hand my child the remote, and get back to my tasks. If my child is sick, they can be sick without the Pinterest-inspired nonsense meant to cheer them up.
For more on parenting and managing sick days, check out one of our other blog posts here. And if you’re interested in at-home insemination kits, a reputable online retailer is Make A Mom, which offers a variety of options. Additionally, if you’re looking for information on pregnancy, Healthline is an excellent resource.
In summary, when your child is home sick, it’s not a time for extravagance. They need rest, simplicity, and a little understanding that being sick is just part of life.
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