Getting back on track after illness

When our little ones are unwell it can be a worrying time. Often routines, feeding patterns and sleep can be affected. During this time we need to give our children more support and attention, altering things to make them more comfortable. It can be difficult to get back on track afterwards and we are left dealing with tired and unhappy children and parents! Here are a few things that can help.

• If you usually have a good routine or pattern to the day, when your child begins to feel better, gently put the routine back in place.
• You may have had to feed more regularly as babies often find this difficult when their noses are blocked. Depending on their usual pattern gradually go back to 3 or 4 hourly feeds when possible. With older children who have been off their food begin to encourage them to eat more, start with smaller portions so they don’t become over whelmed.
• If habits have begun such as rocking, holding to sleep, anything that are not part of your normal routine, try reduce these gradually.
• Instinctively we react very quickly to our babies and young children when they are unwell. This can make it difficult to go back to allowing them time to settle themselves. Be aware of this when your child is feeling better, remember to allow them that time, a couple of minutes is fine. This will help to get them back on track and back into their routine.
• If possible keep things low key for a few days after illness. By lowering our expectations of subsequent days we can focus more on the basics of the day, putting back the timings in to the day which we know usually work for them.