5 things to do for you when your kid is sick
things I do to stay afloat
When your wee one is under the weather it can be incredibly draining. A nourished caregiver makes better decisions and is less likely to get sick themselves. Here are some things I do for myself to stay afloat.
I tend to treat my kids illness like a spa time for them. They get gentle music, rest in bed with screen time, a humidifier. Meals in bed, and lots of rest, constant fluids in the forms of yummy teas and nourishing broths to encourage hydration. But I also try to prioritize my care, because I have experienced the depths of post partum anxiety and am prone to anxiety in general, I have to ramp up my self care
HYDRATE. Caregivers put the needs of their sick child above their own. But for every cup of tea, bowl of soup, nursing session, or drink you bring for your child, you should be downing one yourself. Being dehydrated makes your job as a caregiver harder.
SLEEP when you can. I co-sleep so this is easier for me. But sleeping when your child sleeps and taking cat naps is so important when you can. Stay off your phone and seek out true rest.
COMMUNITY- don’t be afraid to lean on your community if you are blessed to have one. If someone asks you how they can help. Pause and think about it before saying no. Can they bring you an electrolyte drink? Soup? Toilet Paper? Something you really need. Hyper-independence is maladaptive. Humans need need each other.
FOOD - Eat. Stay nourished so you can be functional. Take your supplements, meds, and whatever you need to stay on top.
GO OUTSIDE - Even if its for a couple minutes, or if its a window to let fresh air in, or a wee walk around the block. Get outside and change your scenery. Stretch for 5 minutes by a window.
Bonus - If you struggle with anxiety and advocating your child - keep track of their symptoms in a journal or online calendar so you can share it with their health care provider if its necessary. Sometimes when we are anxious we forget important things. Writing them down can be super helpful.
My most favorite resource for navigating childhood sickness was Dr. Aviva Romm. Her books and podcasts are a good resource.
What else do you do when you are caring for a sick loved one?
Rootin Tootingly yours.
Farai
Great information.