Parenting and the Pox

An article by Chelle    2 Comments

This week has tested our relationship. Mine and my daughters that is….it may be a shame to say it but we are very much girls who like our routine and this week it was completely broken when Fizz showed off her spotty stomach last Saturday morning.

Turns out that two nurseries in the East side of the city (Hanover and Elm Grove) can boast a visit from our little contagious spot friends. Is there a wave of the unsightly infection on the way?

So what do you need to know about limiting the damage and what do you really know what chicken pox is and how it can start?

Chicken pox is a virus that can start as a rash or horrid looking spots that look like mini blisters. Ours started on bottom and back and by Sunday morning were everywhere. Fizz refused and there were plenty of tantrums at nappy changes because of how itchy and uncomfortable they made her. She didn’t want to change her clothes.

The worst part for us was the hair scratching. A place where calamine lotion just didn’t get to well enough.

For our time with the pox a few things have been essential-

1) calamine and cotton wool pads. I was a bit disappointed that our wasn’t the pinky colour it was when I was a child.
2) calprofen or similar to keep any temperature down
3) antihistamine in liquid form. This was really useful to stop the itching so Fizz could sleep.
4) plenty of soft snack and drinks. Fizz had spots on her tongue so didn’t want to eat very much. We stuck to smoothies, pasta, rice and noodles and of course ice cream.
5) Plenty of patience. Having a job which means I work from home meant reevaluating what I could actually do and give my daughter the attention she needs. She became incredibly clingy, wanting cuddles and not being ale to stay still. The lowest point was her coming up to me, cuddling at my back. I thought she was being affectionate but no I was a scratch post!

So be prepared but also remember that once the scabs go over little un is not contagious anymore. There is nothing wrong with going out for a big walk with the buggy. We managed to get down to the marina and have lunch in a child friendly pub. It was extremely quiet so we hid in the corner and had lunch. Sometimes a breath of fresh air can really save your patience with each other.

Have your children had chicken pox? We would love to know any of your survival tips!

If your child has chicken pox consult a doctor or pharmacist before choosing your medication.