How Do You Handle Discipline When Your Child Is Sick?

Hi D.-
I just went through this last night. My 4yr old had a very bad long day and was very tired. He was kicking and screaming trying to get his way. I just put my arms around him and explained that I know its not the way he wants things right now, but he can not kick and scream.. please stop crying and we will talk. He was so cute and said "Mom I am trying to stop crying"... and cried harder. I just held him until he clamed down. So he knows that I do not allow the kicking and screaming even if he is not feeling good, but that we will talk and hug and work things out...
Good Luck!!

Going through this with my 2 1/2 year old.

I still redirect and state rules, but he's gotten a lot of free passes b/c he is sick right now. I've told him that I know he's sick so mama is letting him be grumpy.

I wouldn't worry about him going back to following rules once he's better. I'm crabby as heck too and "misbehave" when I'm sick, but am able to get back on track afterwards.

I feel for you, it's hard at these times!

Being sick does not allow children to missbehave do what you normally do say you know he dosent feel well and you hope he will be better soon but he still has to be a good boy this way you are teaching him that he is living in a world with other people and has to act that way good luck A. raised4 and now have7 grandchildren no hills

I have experienced the same thing. When she is sick, I think, "Where did my sweet little girl go?" Usually, though, I wonder "what is wrong with this kid??" until she is back to being herself, and then realize it was that she didn't feel well. I usually just keep telling her, "I know you don't feel good, but you can't talk to mommy that way." Or, I just try to avoid conflicts, and indulge a little more to avoid struggles. When they are sick, they just need to get better. If they are getting rest, that will help. I wouldn't worry too much. If your son really doesn't feel well, he prob can't help himself. Don't let the behavior go unnoticed, but don't be too harsh unless he is hitting, etc. or something else that really needs to be addressed.

I am so much more lax when she is sick and i do pay for it bc i have to get her back on track when she is better. it is good that you are understanding and trying to be patient but if you can i would try to keep it as much as the same as usual......just giving extra rest/cuddles as needed. I never ever let my 18 mo watch tv but when she is sick i let her snuggle me and watch tv...that helps her a lot to bc she is resting and not getting into trouble. lol. good luck this will pass, till next time!

sick or not when my son is snappy and acts up i always start with "do u need a hug?" or "lets hug it out" he stops with his grumpy behavior ..we hug then we talk..sounds like i'm a push over but i'm not..it really works and ends tantrums etc quickly..and its made him a more pleasant child..his teachers always tell me he's a fave at school..so just try to offer the hug..and say you understand and talk about it..

xo