Every working parent knows how disruptive having a sick kid can be to your routine. Not only are you worried about your child who’s feeling crummy, but you now have to figure out how to cover your work responsibilities. It can help to have a plan in place. Can you call in a family member or a back-up babysitter? Take turns with your partner to cover at home? Telecommute? Cancel the monthly sales trip? The more specific and feasible the plan you develop is, the less daunting the situation will seem. Then tell your boss and colleagues the plan. Be frank about whether you need flexibility, while also underscoring your dedication: “If Jordan gets sick and needs to stay home, our babysitter should be able to cover until 3 PM. Then I’ll need to head home and will work remotely for the rest of the afternoon. If anything urgent comes up while I’m out of the office, please don’t hesitate to reach out.” And remember, missing a meeting or leaving a sick child with a sitter may feel lousy in the moment, but you’re doing the best you can.
Adapted from "How to Handle Work When Your Child Is Sick," by Daisy Wademan Dowling
