Cold and flu season used to knock me flat. Not just physically, but mentally. Between the sick kids, missed school, and juggling work, I always felt behind. Over the years, I found a few things that keep me sane when germs hit our house hard.

Stock the Right Stuff Before You’re Sick

There’s nothing worse than scrambling for tissues and meds when someone’s already coughing. So I prep early. I stock up on:

  • Soft tissues (the kind with lotion)
  • Children’s and adult fever reducers
  • Saline spray and chest rub
  • A new thermometer that actually works

And yes, I hide backup snacks, juice boxes, and crackers. Sick kids are picky, and I don’t want to run out.

Keep Sick Day Supplies in One Spot

I used to have meds in one cabinet, thermometers in another, and tissues who-knows-where. Now I keep a clear bin labeled “sick stuff” that holds it all. I even toss in a small notebook to track temps and meds. When things get chaotic, being organized helps a ton.

Have a Loose Plan (But Stay Flexible)

I’ve learned not to overschedule during sick season. If I’ve got back-to-back meetings and then a kid spikes a fever, I’m toast. Now, I leave breathing room in my calendar. It helps me shift things fast if I need to.

Know When to Call the Doctor

Some fevers pass with fluids and rest. Others stick around or come with weird symptoms. That’s when I call our pediatrician or head to urgent care. I keep a note on my fridge with after-hours numbers and our insurance info. It saves time when my brain feels fuzzy.

Get a Doctor’s Note Online if You Need One

There have been times I needed a note for work or school, but dragging everyone to the clinic felt like too much. That’s when I found doctor’s note online options that let me get one without leaving the house. It made a huge difference during back-to-back colds. I could rest, care for my family, and still handle the paperwork part without extra stress.

Keep Kids Comfortable (and Distracted)

When kids feel sick, they just want comfort. I keep their favorite blanket washed and ready. I prep a short stack of movies, easy games, and coloring pages. And yes, sometimes I bend the screen time rules. The goal is rest—not a parenting trophy.

Make Rest a Rule for Everyone

Even if I’m not sick, I slow down too. I make soup, clear the schedule, and let go of things that can wait. Sometimes we all pile on the couch and watch cartoons. It’s not fancy, but it helps everyone bounce back faster.

Build in Extra Time for Everything

Sick days mean slower mornings, more laundry, and less sleep. I plan on it. I pad our schedule with extra time—whether it’s getting out the door or winding down at night. Rushing just makes everything worse.

Ask for Help (Seriously)

I used to think I had to power through. Now I text a friend for a school pickup or ask my partner to grab dinner. People want to help—you just have to ask. And if you’re lucky enough to have family nearby? Use them.

Don’t Forget to Take Care of You

Last year, I realized I’d stocked up on kid meds but forgot mine. I’m not invincible. I now keep a stash of my own cough drops, vitamins, and tea. A warm shower and a moment to breathe do wonders too.

Final Thought

Cold and flu season is never easy. But it doesn’t have to wreck your whole month. A little prep, some smart tools, and knowing when to rest can make it way more manageable. You’ve got this—even if you’re wearing yesterday’s sweatshirt and have tissues in every pocket.