Little sick babies are just the worst. Not for you, but for them. They are just so sad. And, it can be downright scary in some situations.
I had a different post I was going to write for this week, but then Gus got super sick so this seemed more appropriate. Poor Augustus is only 10 weeks old, but has already had two bad colds and a stomach bug. Yuck. This may only be a problem for poor little babies with eager older siblings that lick carts at Target and then come and give all the kisses and cough in their faces.
From a Montessori perspective, specifically, I think there are also a few things to keep in mind. One, it's alright to make adjustments. For example, we typically avoid propping Augustus up. This means we don't use pillows to help him sit, or place him in swings/bouncers/etc. But, when he is sick, we do what we have to do, and we know it's fine.
Two, we acknowledge feelings and explain whats happening to him. "That cough hurts," "I see you're not feeling well," or "the doctor is going to look in your ears. Are you ready?" These simple questions acknowledge his dignity and recognize the difficult situation he is in. We also avoid using phrases like "it's ok," or shhhhing him while he's crying.
Three, I also try to keep the baby's routine the same as much as possible. This past weekend when Gus had his stomach bug it was almost impossible for him to lay flat on his back because he would puke. He was just the saddest. But, when I placed him in his movement area, he actually smiled for the first time all weekend. His sense of order had been restored. This normalcy was just what he needed.
And finally, don't forget about self-care. That laundry can wait, those dishes might not get done. Get a snack, get a drink and snuggle up that baby on the couch. I know how hard that can be with older children. So, grab a stack of books, cuddle up and make the best of it.
Thankfully, we've avoided serious illness with all of our children. And, I hope that continues! But, I'm sure that we have not seen the end of cold and flu season this year.
How do you deal with illness with your baby? What are your essentials?
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Comments
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