Many children's illness require a convalescence period at home. One parent or
the other will need to spend time with the recovering child, ministering to his
health and spirits. Contrary to what you might expect, much of what
parents have heard about the care of sick children no longer seems wise to
medical authorities.
Don't automatically confine your child to bed unless you have good reason
to isolate the child. There is nothing to be gained by banishing him to a
remote quarter of the home or ordering bed rest. In most cases, other
family members have been amply exposed to the disease.
Allow your convalescing child to be out doors on pleasant days if he/she
wishes to be. If he/she is dressed appropriately, there is nothing about
sunshine or fresh air that will prolong his recovery period .
Make the convalescence as pleasant as possible. Puzzles, books, coloring
books, television, and other diversions will make the time go quickly.
But don't rely on these aids as substitutes for one of the best
medicine of all your loving attention.
