Returning to work after maternity leave can be a challenging period, especially when your little one seems to pick up every bug going around. You might find yourself juggling work commitments with caring for a sick child, leading to stress and anxiety. But don't worry, you're not alone. And there are strategies you can employ to manage this seemingly impossible situation.
Why is this happening?
First of all, it is completely normal for a young child to be ill regularly. As long as the sickness doesn’t last for a prolonged amount of time (always check with GP) it’s not unusual for a little one to pick up 8-10 colds a year. Throw in all the other illnesses circulating around nursery such as sickness bugs, croup, hand foot & mouth, chickenpox etc and there is a lot for your little one and family to contend with.
Statutory time off work to care for dependent
As a working parent, you have the right to take reasonable time off to deal with a domestic emergency, which includes when your child is ill and you need time to make alternative arrangements for their care. Around a quarter of working parents use this right each year. Your employer may pay you but they don’t have to.
Paid compassionate or carer’s leave
Some employers provide paid compassionate or carers’ leave. This is usually around five days per year. Check your employment contract or ask your HR department if you are entitled to this.
Flexible Working
Being able to flex your working day can be an amazing tool for parents. However, it can also lead to overwhelm if you end up having to catch up on work throughout the night. Consider if you’re able to manage everything on your plate with flexing your day or whether you need to take any of the above options.
Annual Leave
Using up your paid annual leave days is an option if you have some spare (although I appreciate not ideal!)
Communication
As with everything we recommend clear communication between yourself and your employer to ensure transparency and understanding that this may be a repetitive problem for a while. Also, if you are ill yourself you should really take a sick day as looking after yourself needs to be top priority during this intense period.
Take a Break
Remember to give yourself a break. Taking care of a sick child while managing work commitments is stressful. It's okay to take a step back and regroup. Use your support network, social media can be a great source of comfort and advice.
Remember To Seek Help & Support When You Need it
It's okay to ask for professional help if you feel that you are struggling to manage on your own. There are many resources available, such as counselling psychologists, who can provide support and strategies to cope.
Do you have any tips you can share below for managing work with a sick child? Feel free to share your experiences and tips, as they might be helpful for other parents facing the same situation.
Written by Maternity Mentor
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