When my daughter started at the Kita at 18 months old, I knew it would be a big transition—for both of us. What I didn’t fully anticipate was just how often she would get sick. It feels like we’ve been on an endless cycle of runny noses, coughs, fevers, and sleepless nights. One week she’s fine, the next she’s battling the flu or stomach flu.
As a mother, it’s heartbreaking to see her suffer. The moments when her little body feels hot against mine, her energy drained, her whimpers asking for comfort—it all makes me feel helpless. We’ve rushed to the hospital more times than I can count, worried that something more serious was happening. And yet, each time, the doctors tell us to go home, to rest, to let it pass.
I’ve come to realize that this is a rite of passage for many children. Daycare settings expose them to all kinds of viruses, and their little immune systems are constantly being challenged. The doctors reassure me: “This is normal. It’s how children build immunity.” But normal or not, it doesn’t make it any easier when my daughter is unwell, refusing to eat, unable to sleep, or crying for relief.
Every time she gets sick, I feel a wave of emotions—worry, exhaustion, and sometimes even guilt. Did I do something wrong? Should I have kept her home longer? Is there more I could do to protect her?
Despite the constant worry, I try to remind myself of the bigger picture. Every virus she fights now is helping her immune system get stronger. Children who go through frequent illnesses in their early years often develop better immunity as they grow. This doesn’t mean I want her to be sick, but understanding this helps me cope with the seemingly never-ending cycle of infections.
I’ve learned to be more patient with the process. I focus on giving her all the love and care she needs—holding her when she’s tired, making sure she stays hydrated, and simply being there for her. I remind myself that this phase will pass.
For any other parents going through the same struggles, I want you to know you’re not alone. Here are some things that help me navigate this tough phase:
1. Trust the process – It’s difficult to watch, but frequent childhood illnesses help build immunity for the future.
2. Prepare for sick days – Stock up on essential medicines, thermometers, and comfort foods to make things easier.
3. Rest when you can – Sleepless nights take a toll on us too, so try to catch up on sleep whenever possible.
4. Seek reassurance – If you’re ever unsure, trust your instincts and seek medical advice. Even if it’s just for peace of mind.
5. Remind yourself: It won’t last forever – One day, she’ll be stronger, and these endless illnesses will be a thing of the past.
Motherhood is full of joys, but also full of heart-wrenching moments like these. No matter how difficult it gets, I know that my love and care are the best medicine she can have. And one day, I’ll look back on these sleepless, tear-filled nights and realize just how strong we both became.
To all the moms dealing with sick toddlers in Kita: You are doing an incredible job. Hang in there.
