Sniffles and Smiles: Navigating Sick Season with Grace and Grit

Tis the season.. for toddler fevers, coughs that keep you up, midnight calls with doctors, and Pedialyte popsicles.

Tis the season.. for slow days at home, naps on mommy’s bed, Lysoling the rug, and cake pops for breakfast.

Tis the season.. for being needed in three different directions, ignoring your own burning throat, and praying for more energy and quick evenings.

Tis the season.. for wanting this sick season to end!

Nothing is more taxing than an extended season with sick littles, and this year has been relentless for almost every mom that we know.

Let’s talk about how to keep our heads held high when sick season tries to bring us down:

Savor the slow moments

Yes, we’re used to running at the speed of light, balancing kids, work, and somehow managing to find that missing sock. But when illness hits, life gives us an unexpected “pause” button. Embrace it. Curl up with your mini-me and watch their favorite movie for the tenth time. The laundry can wait – cuddles can’t.

Self-care isn’t selfish

It’s the mantra we need to repeat: Taking care of ourselves is taking care of our family. So, hit that vitamin C, get as much rest as you can, and remember that sometimes the dishes are fine soaking for one more night — or two.

Build your mom-unity

Lean on your community, whether it’s a partner, a friend, or your fellow magnificent mamas. Swapping soup recipes, venting about puke in the car seat, or just receiving a text saying, “You’re doing great!” can be the spoonful of sugar we need.

Find humor amidst the tissues

Let’s be real – sometimes you just have to laugh to avoid crying. When your little patient demands a drink – only in the blue cup, not the red one – because “it tastes better,” you can only chuckle (and double-check you have enough coffee).

Celebrate the wins

Did everyone take their medicine without a wrestling match? Did you manage to sneak in a shower? That’s a win in our book. Celebrate it! Each small victory is a step toward healthier days.

As we ride the waves of sneezes and fevers, may we also remember that this season is just that – a season. It will pass. Our resilience will grow, and our patience will stretch (mostly).

Remember that this season of motherhood is taxing for the same reason that it’s beautiful… because they need you so, so much.

So, stock the medicine cabinet, queue up the Netflix, and prepare for the snuggle marathon. Remember, you’re not alone, and together we’ll emerge from sick season ready for whatever comes next, one sanitized high-five at a time.

Join Our Community