When your baby is sick, it can feel like everything else falls to the wayside. Between worrying about your little one’s health and trying to keep things together at home, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But you don’t have to do it all alone or perfectly.
Here's how to get through those tough sick days:
1. Focus on Hydration
When your baby isn’t feeling well, keeping them hydrated is key. Their appetite will likely decrease when they're sick, increasing the risk of dehydration from fever or diarrhoea. Offer fluids regularly—for babies under 1, offer breastmilk or formula more frequently, especially if they refuse solid foods. For toddlers, provide additional healthy beverages, such as full-fat milk & coconut water, and hydrating food during meals and snacks. Keep an eye on wet diapers as a sign that they’re getting enough fluids.
2. Engage Your Village
An extra pair of hands goes a long way! Whether it's family members, friends, or neighbours, asking for help can make a world of difference. Whether they’re bringing over a meal, watching the baby while you rest, or taking care of small tasks, every bit counts.
It also could be someone else offering to handle the meals for the day - yes, even yours! Our wholesome, ready-to-heat baby meals take one thing off your plate, while you focus on your babies.
A loved one helping to babysit for a bit is usually much needed - because once your baby is on the mend, we're probably the NEXT in line to catch the virus.
Similar to the newborn days, this tactic of splitting care is useful in that it allows one parent to rest while the other cares for bubs. And remember—asking for help doesn’t make you any less of a parent.
3. Leave the Chores for Later
When your baby is sick, household chores can wait. It's OKAY for the house to look like a shipwreck temporarily. Focus on what really matters—your baby’s comfort and hydration. Let the laundry, dishes, and cleaning slide for a few days. Once all is well, chores can resume! If you have the means, engage a part-time cleaner to bring the chaos back in order once the virus has passed. It’s okay to let go of the small stuff while your baby needs you.
4. Keep a Regular Feeding Routine
Consistency is comforting for a sick baby. Stick to your usual feeding schedule, even if your baby eats less than usual. Keep things calm and familiar, whether that’s nursing or bottle-feeding. Your baby may not eat as much, but offering something regularly helps keep their energy up.
5. Keep it Easy, Safe, and Comforting
Create a calm, safe environment for your baby to rest in. Keep noise and light levels low, and make the space cozy with soft blankets or their favorite stuffed animal. Make sure everything within reach is safe and baby-proofed, and don’t forget to keep comforting rituals like lullabies or gentle rocking.
Sick days aren't the time to introduce new food or new allergens. Stick to easy-to-eat, comforting foods or their favourite go-to meals. Try including foods with immune-boosting properties like turmeric, ginger, berries and honey*.
*only for over 1 year olds.
Final Thoughts
While a baby’s sick days can be overwhelming, remember that this phase is temporary.
Focus on hydration, take things slow, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it. By leaning on your support system and keeping things simple, you'll ensure both you and your baby get through these tough days with as much ease and comfort as possible. You've got this—take it one step at a time, and soon enough, your little one will be back to their happy, healthy self.
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