When my child is unwell, the only way for them to stay home from school—or to miss it altogether—is if they’re running a fever or are throwing up. When they’re home, the options are limited: they can either lounge on the couch and zone out in front of the TV or retreat to bed for some much-needed sleep. That’s all there is to it.
What they definitely won’t be doing is receiving a “feel better” gift that I snagged from the dollar store for just this occasion. There will be no arts and crafts, no character-themed teas or hot cocoa, and absolutely no elaborate hideouts to keep them entertained. Forget scavenger hunts, charades, or fun mom-and-me activities. No hair braiding, faux tattoos, or epic bath times.
Simply put, there will be no fun.
Why has having a sick child at home turned into an elaborate event for parents? This isn’t a time to celebrate a runny nose or find creative ways to bond with a little one. When kids are sick, they need to rest. They should be eating soup and having their temperature checked. If they’re feeling restless, they can chill out with a book or some TV. Or better yet, I might say, “If you’re well enough to bother me, you’re well enough to get back to school.”
You can bet my kids despise sick days. Our home is not an entertainment paradise where they can make finger-paint masterpieces while I play the role of a whimsical character. Kids don’t need to be entertained every single moment. Being sick shouldn’t be turned into a grand occasion for amusement.
It’s disheartening to see parents treating their children like little divas who require extravagant events to be happy. From over-the-top birthday parties with party favors to pointless participation awards and endless school photo shoots, it all leads to a generation of entitled kids with little appreciation for hard work or simplicity. In other words, it creates brats.
No online magazine is going to pressure me into creating a magical experience for my sick child. I won’t be decorating with crepe paper or baking a “get well” cake. I refuse to stockpile toys and games just to cushion the blow of a common cold. Instead, I’ll heat up some soup, hand over the remote, and get back to my to-do list. If my child is sick, they can be sick without all the Pinterest-inspired nonsense.
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In summary, when my child is sick, it’s about rest and recovery, not elaborate distractions.