Parenting While You're Unwell: What To Do When You Can’t Call In Sick

Eisya Ereena
March 02, 2025
6 min

There’s a universal truth about parenting: you don’t get sick days.

There’s no HR to approve your leave, no one to take over your shift, and definitely no cosy, uninterrupted bed rest while you sip hot tea and recover.

Nope.

You’re still on duty - just with a fever, a stuffy nose, and a body that feels like jello.

And if you’re a parent without family or friends on standby to step in, the reality is you still have to parent anyway.

The kids still need to eat. They still need attention. They still need you.

So, how do we survive those days when we’re running on an immune system that's barely holding on?

Let’s talk low-energy parenting, guilt-free screen time, and how to keep the household running (barely, but still) while you recover.

Temporary Survival Mode Parenting

First, let’s set expectations.

This is not the time for Instagram-worthy parenting.

No homemade organic meals, no elaborate learning activities, no spotless house.

We’re in survival mode and nobody is watching.

What does survival mode look like?

It looks like making choices that conserve as much of your precious, limited energy as possible.

It means doing less, lowering standards, and reminding yourself that resting isn’t slacking - it’s essential.

Forget housework! No one is grading you on how clean your floors are.

Momentary messy houses don’t hurt kids, burnt-out parents might.

Meals should be simple or ordered in.

If you have the strength to slap together some peanut butter sandwiches, great.

If not? Grab or Foodpanda will do the job. No guilt, no judgment.

Your only real job is keeping your kids alive and well.

Everything else will follow through when you recover.

The Art of Low-Energy Parenting

On a normal day, parenting requires a full battery.

But today, your battery is flashing red at 3%, and there’s no charger in sight.

So, how do you entertain kids without exhausting yourself? Here’s the secret: switch to 'inactive play.'

• The ‘I’m Just a Pillow’ Strategy: Lay on the couch and tell your toddler you’re a sleeping mountain. Let them climb. You win by resting and you get a free massage.


• Toy Rotation Hack: Dump out a box of forgotten toys. This hack gave my kids instant excitement with zero effort.


• Creative ‘Lying Down’ Games: Can they play 'hair salon' while you lie on the couch? Yes. Can they 'build a fort' while you supervise from under a blanket? Absolutely.


• The Floor Is Your Friend: If you can’t get up, be where they are. Reading books? Do it lying down. Playing blocks? Do it lying down. Existing? Also do it lying down.

Screen Time? More Like ‘Survival Time’

This is not the day to feel guilty about screen time.

Your extended screen time pass has been officially approved.

Here’s the thing: we’re trying our best.

The screen isn’t a replacement for you but it’s just an extra set of hands when you have none.

And, if it makes you feel better - a well-timed movie can buy you a solid 90-minute nap.

More keen for some educational YouTube videos? They exist and it helps with the parent guilt.

Parenting older kiddos and they're into gaming? Bring it on.

The rules can return to normal when you’re better because right now, survival comes first.

So go ahead, set them up with Netflix, Disney+, or an endless Bluey marathon - whatever buys you the most uninterrupted rest.

(And if you do feel guilty, remind yourself that screen time is still less damaging than a sleep-deprived, feverish parent trying to ‘power through.’)

Food? Whatever Works.

On a normal day, you might plan well-balanced, home-cooked meals.

But today? Today is not a normal day!

If you have the energy, whip up simple meals that require zero chopping, stirring, or energy.

Think buttered noodles and toss some nuggets into the airfryer which my kids absolutely adore!

We think its plain the kids think its party food.

If you don’t? Order in.

Grab and Foodpanda exist for a reason.

Even if your kids eat chicken rice three times in a row, they will be fine.

Snacks are meals now.

Crackers, fruit, cheese, even cereal straight from the box - if they eat it, it counts.

Rest, Even If It’s Not Perfect

You might not get a full eight hours of sleep (because kids, obviously), but that doesn’t mean you can’t steal moments of rest wherever possible.

Nap when they nap.

Yes, we all roll our eyes at this advice, but if the opportunity is there, take it.

Close your eyes, even if you’re not sleeping.

If your kids are occupied, just lying down with your eyes closed helps.

If they’re old enough, explain what’s happening.

A simple 'Mummy’s not feeling well, so I need to rest today' can help set expectations for them, too.

Keeping the Germs at Bay (As Much as Possible)

Completely isolating yourself from your kids when you’re sick is near impossible.

They’ll still want hugs, still need help with their socks, and it is during this period that they realise they'd like to do more arts and crafts.

But there are a few things you can do to minimise the spread:

• Wear a mask at home: It’s not glamorous, but it helps, especially during cuddle requests.


• Keep hand sanitizers within easy reach: Strategically place them in high-traffic areas for easy access.


• Ventilation is your friend: Open windows, let the fresh air in, and keep fans running to reduce germ buildup.

But let’s be real - these are just precautionary steps, not a foolproof shield.

It's always best to mentally prepare for the possibility that the bug may make its rounds.

When that happens?

Just roll with it, keep the medicine stocked, and remind yourself this too shall pass.

When They’re Also Sick?

Oh, the worst-case scenario.

You’re sick, and the kids are sick. May the odds be ever in your favor.

This is when bare minimum parenting kicks in at full force.

• Step 1 - Forget all the rules: Want to stay in pajamas all day? Done. Want to picnic in bed? Sure. We’re all just surviving here.


• Step 2 - Hydration and comfort are the priority: Fluids, rest, and zero unnecessary movement.


• Step 3 - If meds are needed, set alarms. Fever reducers, cough syrups - all brains are foggy, don’t rely on memory.

And most importantly? Embrace the chaos. It’s not forever.

I personally love calling it an extended sleepover party with lots of cuddles!

Give Yourself a Break

When the fever fades, the cough settles, and you finally start feeling human again, let go of the guilt over what you should have done differently.

You survived. The kids survived.

Sure, the house might look like a tornado just hit, but guess what? You made it.

Because parenting while sick isn’t about doing it all - it’s about doing just enough.

And sometimes, just enough is exactly what your family needs.

To busy parents, we always tell ourselves, 'I’ll rest when there’s time.'

But if we keep waiting for that perfect moment, we’ll just end up buried under tissues, running on empty.

So here’s a reminder, one we all need from time to time: taking care of yourself isn’t selfish - it’s essential.

The next time you find yourself battling the flu while parenting solo, take the shortcuts.

Order the food. Let the screen time roll. Ignore the mess.

Because at the end of the day, keeping everyone alive is more than enough.

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.

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For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!

Ramadan Essentials to Keep You Covered This Holy Month

Zakwan Shah
February 28, 2025
8 min
With Ramadan just around the corner, it's important to prepare all the essentials in honour of the holy month.

From snacks and supplements to breast milk and feeding accessories, our perfectly curated list of must-haves will have everything a mother needs for the fasting month ahead.

Here are the top 10 Ramadan essentials to ensure smooth sailing this Ramadan.

10 Must-Haves for You and Yours This Ramadan

Baby Natura Organic Brown Rice Porridge

Give your little one the best start with Baby Natura’s Organic Brown Rice Porridge.

It's perfect for those hectic Ramadan mornings when you're running out of time for sahur.

Made from whole brown rice, this nutritious meal is packed with dietary fibre, proteins, calcium, and essential vitamins to support your baby’s healthy growth.

Unlike polished rice, brown rice retains its nutrients, providing twice the iron and three times more Vitamin B3.

Its smooth texture makes it ideal for first-time weaning, and it pairs perfectly with fruits or vegetables for a delicious and nourishing meal.

Price: RM59.50

Where to buy: Motherhood.com.my - Baby Natura Organic Brown Rice Porridge

Berry Bright Eye Nourishing Drink

It's important to ensure you get optimal nutrition during the fasting month.

Take care of your eyes during Ramadan with Berry Bright Eye Nourishing Drink, a whole-food supplement packed with New Zealand blackcurrant anthocyanins, lutein, zeaxanthin, and Vitamin C.

This natural formula helps combat eye fatigue, dryness, and blue light exposure, making it perfect for those who spend long hours on digital devices.

With no artificial preservatives or colouring, it’s a healthy way to maintain optimal vision.

Suitable for all ages.

Price: RM49.00

Where to buy: Motherhood.com.my - Berry Bright Eye Nourishing Drink

Pascual Greek Vanilla Yogurt

Indulge in the creamy richness of Pascual Greek Vanilla Yogurt, a delicious and nutritious snack packed with proteins and calcium.

Made with high-quality liquid cow’s milk, this gluten-free treat is naturally free from preservatives and artificial additives.

Those probiotics are also great for keeping your digestive system nourished while you're fasting all day.

Its smooth texture and natural sweetness make it a perfect way to break your fast or enjoy as a light and healthy dessert.

Price: RM4.50

Where to buy: Motherhood.com.my - Pascual Greek Vanilla Yogurt

NZ Health Naturally UMF 10+ 500g Manuka Honey

Support your immune system with NZ Health Naturally’s UMF 10+ Manuka Honey, a premium honey sourced from New Zealand.

This halal-certified honey is free from artificial additives and preservatives, making it a natural and healthy alternative to sugar.

Honey is also packed full of energy to keep you fully charged for the whole day even while you're fasting.

Enjoy it on toast, in warm drinks, or as a soothing remedy for sore throats. A pantry essential for a healthy Ramadan!

Price: RM376.00

Where to buy: Motherhood.com.my - NZ Health Naturally UMF 10+ 500g Manuka Honey

Hoppi Premium Wipes

Keep your skin fresh and clean with Hoppi Premium Wipes, specially designed for sensitive skin.

These dermatologically tested, halal-certified wipes are enriched with chamomile, aloe, and xylitol to cleanse while maintaining moisture.

Free from alcohol, parabens, and harsh chemicals, they are gentle enough for babies and adults too with sensitive skin.

These are perfect for when you're out with the family for iftar and need to maintain hygiene for your little ones before they dig in.

Price: RM17.90

Where to buy: Motherhood.com.my - Hoppi Premium Wipes

BLOOM Energy & Milk Booster

For breastfeeding mothers, BLOOM Energy & Milk Booster is a must-have supplement designed to increase breast milk production and enhance postpartum recovery.

When you're fasting, you're taking in less nutrients. BLOOM Energy & Milk Booster ensures your body has everything it needs to continue nourishing your little one even during the holy month.

Packed with essential vitamins and minerals, it supports hormonal balance, improves sleep, and promotes radiant skin.

Just two sachets can make a noticeable difference, providing energy and nourishment for both mother and baby.

Price: RM229.00

Where to buy: Motherhood.com.my - BLOOM Energy & Milk Booster

Grapebly Milk Powder Storage Bags

Grapebly Milk Powder Storage Bags are the ultimate convenience for parents on-the-go.

As Ramadan can be a hectic time especially during sahur and iftar, these quick and easy storage bags ensure your little one has everything they need before going out the door.

These BPA-free, three-layered food-grade bags keep milk powder fresh while maintaining nutrients.

Each bag holds up to 50g (300ml) of milk, features a double zip seal, and is lightweight for easy travel. Ideal for storing baby snacks, biscuits, and fruits too!

Price: RM14.90

Where to buy: Motherhood.com.my - Grapebly Milk Powder Storage Bag

Japlo Milk Powder Container

Perfect for travel, the Japlo Milk Powder Container holds three doses of formula milk in separate compartments, ensuring easy preparation on the go.

Made with lightweight, unbreakable materials, it features a smooth internal wall for effortless pouring.

BPA-free and halal-certified, it’s a practical and safe choice for parents on-the-go during the busy Ramadan month.

Price: RM14.50

Where to buy: Motherhood.com.my - Japlo Milk Powder Container

Supermama Lab Portable Milk Warmer 2.0

While we're talking about convenience and speed, take the hassle from all the time-consuming parenting obligations with this bottle warmer.

Make feeding time effortless with the Supermama Portable Milk Warmer 2.0, a smart device designed to heat baby’s milk safely and efficiently.

With four temperature settings and wireless charging, it’s perfect for parents on-the-go.

Compatible with popular wide-neck bottles and featuring an advanced safety heating system, this warmer ensures convenience wherever you are.

Price: RM252.00

Where to buy: Motherhood.com.my - Supermama Lab Portable Milk Warmer 2.0

Le Mère Cooler Bag

Le Mère Cooler Bag is designed for stylish and practical mothers who need a reliable way to keep breast milk fresh.

Travelling during Ramadan requires much preparation, especially if you have newborns and babies to look after.

With its insulated compartment, it maintains long-lasting cooling effects and doubles as a lunch bag or makeup bag.

Functional and chic, it’s a must-have for modern mothers.

Price: RM59.00

Where to buy: Motherhood.com.my - Le Mère Cooler Bag

Save the Date for Motherhood.com.my’s TikTok LIVE Feb-tastic Flash Sale!

Mark your calendars mum for exciting deal and discounts this February featuring our hottest items from brands like Ddrops, Avent, Arley and Senss.

Come join Motherhood.com.my’s Feb-tastic Flash Sale on TikTok LIVE for exclusive deals!

• First week: 12 February 2025 to 14 February 2025


• Second week: 19 February 2025 to 21 February 2025


• Third week: 24 February 2025 to 28 February 2025

The lives will be held on two time slots for each date:

• Session 1: 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.


• Session 2: 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.

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For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!

Sunshine Bakeries Launches SHOKUPAN GOLD Purple Sweet Potato Loaf

Sarah
February 17, 2025
1 min
Sunshine Bakeries proudly announces the arrival of its SHOKUPAN GOLD Purple Sweet Potato Loaf in Malaysia.

Consumers can purchase this limited-edition, Japanese-inspired loaf starting today.

Sunshine Bakeries crafted this unique and delicious bread experience with premium ingredients and real purple sweet potato.

Real purple sweet potato bits give the SHOKUPAN GOLD Purple Sweet Potato Loaf its lusciously soft and fluffy texture and infuse it with an earthy aroma and delicate sweetness.

Japanese baking artistry inspires this premium loaf, which balances sophistication and comfort, making it a perfect addition to any meal or snack.

Busy individuals will appreciate the SHOKUPAN GOLD Purple Sweet Potato Loaf's convenience.

This ready-to-eat loaf requires no preparation, making it ideal for breakfast, teatime, or a late-night treat.

Beyond its irresistible taste, it also provides natural antioxidants and nutrients, adding a wholesome touch to daily routines.

Consumers can find the SHOKUPAN GOLD Purple Sweet Potato Loaf for a limited time while stocks last at major retail stores in Klang Valley and Negeri Seremban, with availability in Penang coming soon.

Don't miss the opportunity to savour this delightful and aromatic loaf!

Visit Sunshine Bakeries or follow on Instagram and Facebook for more information.

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For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!

Surviving the First Week of School: A Guide for Parents and Kids

Eisya Ereena
February 18, 2025
4 min

It’s 6:30 a.m.

Somewhere in the depths of a very cosy blanket and a fort of pillows, my 6-year-old mumbles, 'Five more minutes.'

I check the clock; it’s already been ten.

'Let’s go shower.'

A dramatic groan usually follows.

And just like that, the school routine is back.

The once-lazy mornings of movie marathons and slow breakfasts have been replaced with squinting eyes, half-eaten banana pancakes, and repetitive negotiations over why we really, really have to leave now.

And it’s not just the kids who are struggling.

Parents, whether working or stay-at-home, are also recalibrating.

The house suddenly feels too quiet after weeks of non-stop holiday energy, and somehow, getting back into the school routine feels just as challenging for us as it does for them.

So, how do we make this transition smoother for them and for us? Let's delve into this together.

Accept That Mornings Are Going to Be a Mess (And Plan for It)

Let’s be real.

No amount of  'Let’s get everything ready the night before' will prevent at least one runaway shoe, forgotten forms, or an emergency bathroom trip when you’re already late.

But small hacks do help.

• The Nighttime Reset: Bags by the door, water bottles filled, uniforms ironed (or at least found). The less thinking required in the morning, the better.


• Wake-Up Strategies: Some kids wake up fresh, while others like mine seem to emerge from a hibernation cave. A wake-up song, a race to the bathroom, or (when all else fails) the promise of a little fun snack after school sometimes helps.


• Time Padding: If school starts at 7:30 a.m., pretend it starts at 7:15 a.m. You’d be surprised how those extra 'fake' minutes save you.

Managing Emotions (Yours and Theirs)

New year, new worries.

Will they like their teacher?

Will they have friends in their class?

Will they lose yet another water bottle within the first week?

For kids, anxiety can show up in different ways.

They might be clingier, moodier, or suddenly have an upset stomach.

It’s all part of adjusting.

• Validate, Don’t Dismiss: A simple, 'I know it feels a little scary, but you’ve done this before, and you’ll be great,' goes a long way.


• Give Them a Little Control: Whether it’s picking their own snacks or choosing their school shoes, even small choices can make them feel more confident.


• A ‘Secret Note’ Trick: Slip a tiny note (or a silly drawing) into their pencil case or lunchbox. It’s a small way to remind them you’re cheering them on.

And parents, let’s be honest.

We have our own emotions to manage too.

The house feels quieter and after weeks of a chaotic, lively holiday, there’s suddenly a void.

Stay-at-home parents might find the silence unsettling.

Working parents might feel that mix of relief and guilt for not being there at pick-up.

It’s all valid.

Maybe this is a good time to restart a hobby, plan a long-overdue coffee date, or just sit in glorious silence for a while.

Plus, in a couple of hours, the chaos resumes.

The Great Bedtime Adjustment

After a month of 'Just one more episode' and 'It’s the holidays, we can sleep late', transitioning back to school-appropriate bedtimes can sometimes feel like a battle.

• The Gradual Wind-Down: If bedtime was previously 10 p.m., don’t expect an immediate 8:30 p.m. shutdown. Bring it back in 15-minute increments.


• Screens Off, Books On: If your child is reluctant to sleep, try a bedtime story with dimmer lights and warm cuddles.


• Your Own Sleep Matters Too: If you’re waking up at 6 a.m., you also need to sleep earlier. Yes, that means no more late-night scrolling (unless it’s for harmless online shopping, in which case, carry on, mummies).

Easing Post-Holiday Blues

Kids aren’t the only ones struggling with post-holiday withdrawal.

After weeks of stress-free schedules, suddenly being back in the school to homework to early bedtime cycle is a hard on everyone.

• Keep a Bit of the Holiday Spirit Alive: Plan a small treat for the weekend maybe a family outing, a 'movie breakfast' on Saturday, or a movie night. Something small to break up the routine.


• Make School Sound Exciting: Instead of focusing on, 'Back to school, ugh!,' frame it as 'New year, new adventures!'


• Get Yourself Something Nice Too: Maybe it’s a fancy coffee, a fresh planner, or just a moment to breathe. Kids aren’t the only ones adjusting.

Give Yourself Grace

Not every morning will be smooth.

Some days, the socks won’t match, the breakfast won’t be eaten, and somebody will cry about something extremely small (them or you, to be determined).

And that’s okay, my fellow mummies!

Don't worry because by the second or third week, things will typically settle.

The wake-ups will get easier, the bedtime battles will fade, and one day, you’ll blink, and they’ll be the ones waking you up because they’re excited to go.

Until then, we survive one morning at a time.

Coffee in hand.

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.

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For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!

Mummy Shares: The Unspoken Rules of the Mall Lift (And Why I Wish They Were Spoken)

Eisya Ereena
February 13, 2025
3 min
The moment my husband and I became parents, our sense of adventure took a backseat - especially when it came to malls.

We found one that ticked all the boxes: ample parking, family-friendly facilities, and an all-around safe space for our firstborn.

And now, almost six years later and with two boys, we still find ourselves frequenting the same mall at least once or twice a month.

Do we get bored of it? Absolutely.

Do we flirt with the idea of exploring a newer, shinier, more exciting mall? All the time.

Special exhibitions, trendy new outlets, or even just the need for a change of scenery tempts us constantly.

But if there’s one thing that truly holds us back, it’s this: the dreaded lift battle.

The Lift Lottery: Will We Get In?

While we wouldn’t call ourselves seasoned parents just yet, we’d like to think we’re pretty experienced when it comes to navigating public spaces with a stroller.

And let’s just say, trying to get into a public lift with two kids and a stroller is basically an extreme sport.

We’ve had our fair share of experiences standing there patiently, waiting for our turn, only to be outrun by an able-bodied, Olympic-level sprinter who thinks nothing of dashing into the lift before us.

It’s almost impressive. Almost.

Then there’s that unspoken camaraderie among parents.

You know the one.

That wordless exchange between exhausted caregivers waiting at the lift:

'How long have you been here?'
'Long enough.'
'Two kids?'
'Yeah. You?'
'Three.' (A quick scan of the trio in tow.)

A tired smile.

A knowing nod.

And then back to waiting until one of us inevitably gives up and goes searching for the service lift.

The Confrontation That Never Works

Image Credit: @TribeKakchik on X

Confrontation? Oh, we’ve tried.

We’ve pointed at the clearly visible signs that say: Priority for parents with strollers, the elderly, and individuals with mobility challenges.

We’ve asked - sometimes politely, sometimes not-so-politely if anyone could let us in.

But unless someone in that crowded lift suddenly has a moral awakening, the result is almost always the same: a blank stare, a shrug, or a pointed ignoring of our very existence.

The Desperate Measures We’ve Taken

Have we ever given up and just taken the escalator instead? Yes.

Have we carried the kids and awkwardly lifted the stroller while balancing diaper bags? Yes.

Was it safe? Not at all.

Was it necessary?

After waiting for 15 minutes, squeezing out a few 'excuse me's, and still finding ourselves stuck, yes.

Because unless you’ve ever dealt with a squirmy, impatient toddler who’s this close to a meltdown, you wouldn’t understand the urgency.

A Matter of Necessity, Not Convenience

The thing is, we get it.

No one enjoys waiting for the lift.

But when you’re able-bodied and perfectly capable of using an escalator or stairs, taking up space in the lift when others need it more?

That’s a choice that makes life harder for parents, pregnant women, and individuals with mobility challenges.

A little mindfulness goes a long way.

Next time you find yourself in front of a packed lift, maybe take a second to check: Is there a parent struggling with a stroller?

A wheelchair user waiting patiently?

A pregnant woman who’s clearly exhausted?

Contrary to popular belief, most parents don’t feel the world revolves around them.

We wait just like any other person, hoping that we find some way to fit into the next round of the lift.

And honestly, if we could, we’d love to take the escalator - it is in every way faster and more convenient.

But with a bulky stroller, an unpredictable toddler, and the ever-present risk of safety hazards, the lift becomes our only option.

So, for some of us, that lift isn’t just a convenience, it’s a necessity.

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.

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For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!