Caring for sick children - What parents should know

Childcare - more than just looking after

When it comes to care, most people think of care for the elderly. However, caring for sick children is also a crucial area in the care sector. Childcare workers take on a responsible role: they ensure the physical and emotional well-being of children and support parents in challenging situations.

When a child falls ill, parents are often faced with a dilemma: How can loving and qualified care be provided without completely interrupting everyday family life or work? Finding the right care solution can be a challenge, especially if the family is dependent on support.

Yet which Care options are there? What qualifications should caregivers have? And how do you find a trustworthy caregiver?

In this article, you can find out everything you need to know about childcare, what care solutions are available and what parents should look out for when looking for a caregiver for their sick child.

The challenges of childcare

Why is caring for sick children so challenging?

Children are still vulnerable in their development. They need special attention, patience and professional care, especially when they are ill. A sick child's soul needs not only medical care, but also emotional support.

Caregivers must therefore not only have specialist knowledge, but also a high degree of empathy. It may also be necessary to care for a sick child over a longer period of time - especially in the case of chronic illnesses or after a serious operation.

Balancing work and family - a difficult balancing act

Many parents face the challenge of managing the balancing act between a job and sick childcare. It is not always possible for parents to take time off work in the long term. A reliable caregiver can be an enormous relief in such moments.

Forms of care for sick children

1. Childcare in daycare centers or crèches

In daycare centers and nurseries, sick children are usually not welcome - and for good reason: the risk of infection for other children is too high. Nevertheless, there are special facilities that specialize in the care of sick children.

2. Care by childminders or nannies

Individual care in a home environment is often the best solution for sick children. A loving childminder or an experienced nanny can adapt specifically to the child's needs and provide the necessary care.

3. Specialized child care workers

If a child requires more intensive care, a specialized pediatric caregiver may be an ideal solution. These professionals have training in medical care and can also assist with administering medication or wound care, for example.

What qualifications should a childcare provider have?

Not every caregiver is qualified to care for a sick child. Here are the most important qualifications that parents should look out for:

A good sign of a reputable caregiver is also pedagogical training or demonstrable experience in working with children.

Childcare at home - What to consider?

A structured daily routine helps

A regular daily routine can help a sick child feel safe and comfortable. This includes fixed mealtimes, rest periods and playful activities that are good for the child.

Promotion through pedagogical concepts

There are various educational concepts that can also be helpful when caring for sick children:

• Montessori method: Promotes the child's independence and initiative.
• Waldorf-Pädagogik:Uses natural materials and creative play to promote well-being.
• Reggio-Pädagogik: Promotes a child's emotional intelligence through artistic expression.

Emotional support for children and parents

Not only the sick child, but also the parents need support. Caring for your child can be stressful. A loving-care can be a huge relief not only for the child, but also for the family.

 Your financial aid information:

I know how much worrying about a sick child can be stressful. That's when it's important to take care of your own financial situation. Here is some information on financial and legal support that can help you during this difficult time:

• Austria

  Nursing exemption: 

                       

  • Parents are entitled to care leave when their child is ill. This allows them to stay at home and care for their child.

   

  • You can find information on this on the website of the Catholic Family Association of Austria.

   

• Children's sick pay:

   

  • Legally insured parents have Entitlement to child sickness benefit to compensate for the loss of earnings during care leave.

   

  • You can find information on this on the Öko-Test website.
•  

• Germany  

  Children's sick pay:

          

  • Legally insured parents are entitled to child sickness benefit if their child is ill and they have to look after them at home.

        

  • The number of days that can be taken per child per year is regulated by law.

         

  • You can find information about this on the website Kindergesundheit-Info.de.

   

  Additional funding:

              

  • There are regional differences in additional funding or grants. It is advisable to obtain information from the respective health insurance company or youth welfare office.
•  

Legal aspects you should know:

• Austria:

  Labor law:

           

  • Employees have the right to caregiver leave when their child is sick.

     

  • The exact provisions are set out in employment law.

   

  Insurance:

   

  • Check with your health insurance provider to find out what services are covered for the care of sick children.

• Germany:

• Labor law:

             

  • Employees have the right to time off to care for their sick child.

   

  • The exact provisions are set out in the Federal Parental Allowance and Parental Leave Act.

   

  Insurance:

        

  • Health insurance usually covers the costs of necessary medical treatment.

Regional differences:      

• Austria:

     

• The offers and support may vary depending on the federal state.
• Check with the relevant authorities or organizations in your region.

• Germany:            

  • The responsibilities and offers may vary depending on the federal state.

           

  • Inform yourself at the responsible state authorities or youth welfare offices.

   

   

Information on special clinical pictures

Every child is unique and so are their needs when they are sick. I would like to give you some information here about specific medical conditions so that you are better prepared and know where you can find support

💡

Noras' tip: There are often specialized care options for children with chronic illnesses or special needs.

Find out from pediatricians, specialized clinics or self-help groups.

 

A few examples:

• Children with diabetes: Here are special training and care programs that include the use of insulin and monitoring of blood glucose levels.
• Children with asthma: There are specialized respiratory therapists and care facilities. It is also important that caregivers are informed about the triggers and emergency measures for asthma attacks.
• Children with rare diseases: There are often specialized centers and self-help groups. Contacting these can be very helpful in obtaining specific information and support.
• Children with epilepsy: Caregivers should be knowledgeable about the different types of seizures, the proper response during a seizure and how to administer medication.
• Children with ADHD: Here it is important to create a calm and structured environment and cater to the child's specific needs.
• Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Caregivers should address the specific communication and behavioral patterns and develop strategies to promote social interaction..

 

 

When your child is sick, you know how hard it can be. The worry, organizing everyday life, going to work and looking for good care can put a lot of strain on you. But you are not alone! Many families know this challenge.

Finding the right care for your sick child is one of the most important decisions you can make. A loving and competent caregiver can not only help your child, but also take a huge burden off your shoulders.

It is important to have a trusting relationship with the caregiver. Only then can you be sure that your child is in good hands and that you can concentrate on what is important right now.

On noracares you will find qualified caregivers or nursing staff who will cater to the individual needs of your child. We want to support you in finding the best solution for your family.

All the best, Nora

 

Register here

 

For noracares you can find qualified caregivers who cater to your child's individual needs. Register now and find the best support for your family.

 

 

What are the benefits of a caregiver for sick children?

A caregiver not only provides security and care, but also supports your child emotionally. You can rest assured that your child is in loving hands. In addition, a caregiver can help you manage your everyday life better and concentrate on your work or other commitments. They can also be an important support for your family by giving advice and helping to organize the care.

What childcare solutions are there for working parents?

There are different models depending on your needs:
Childminders: Look after children in a private environment, often in their own home.
Nannies: Private caregivers who usually work in your household. They can be deployed flexibly and can also take on tasks such as cooking or light housework. Specialized caregivers: For children who require more intensive medical care. These professionals have training in medical care and can, for example, administer medication or treat wounds.
Flexible care via platforms such as noracares: Here you can find qualified caregivers who can meet your child's individual needs and are available at short or long notice.

What qualifications should a caregiver have?

Important qualifications are:
Experience in childcare: Specialist knowledge and empathy in dealing with children are essential.
Basic medical knowledge: Especially important if your child needs regular medication or special medical care.
First aid course for children: To be able to act quickly and correctly in an emergency.
Patience and empathy: Sick children need emotional security and loving care.
Hygiene awareness: Protection against infection is particularly important in childcare.
Pedagogical training: An advantage to promote your child's development and offer appropriate activities.

What does professional childcare cost?

The costs vary depending on:
Qualification of the caregiver: Experienced professionals or those with special additional qualifications are usually more expensive.
Duration of care: Hourly care is usually cheaper than full-time care.
Type of care: A specialized caregiver can be more expensive than a childminder.
Region: Prices can vary depending on where you live.
State subsidies such as child sickness benefit or grants can help to reduce costs.

FAQ 2
 

How do I find a trustworthy caregiver?

Platforms such as noracares: Offer qualified caregivers and nursing staff.
Personal interviews: Conduct in-depth interviews with potential caregivers to get an idea of who they are.
References: Get references from previous employers or families.
H gut feeling: Trust your gut feeling and choose someone you feel comfortable and confident with.

How do I prepare my child for care by a stranger?

Speak positively about the caregiver and explain to your child what to expect.
Let your child get to know the caregiver in advance, if possible.
Give your child a favorite cuddly toy or an object that makes them feel safe.
Stay calm and confident yourself to give your child a sense of security.

How can I ensure that my child is well looked after?

Have regular conversations with the caregiver
. Get regular feedback from your child.
Observe how your child reacts to the caregiver.
Trust your gut feeling and look for another childcare solution if necessary.

• Childcare: care and support of children in the home environment or special institutions, including care in the event of illness.
• Daycare: caregiver who cares for children in a private setting, often in their own home.
• Nanny: Private caregiver who usually works in your household and can be deployed flexibly.
• Montessori method: Pedagogical concept that promotes independence, personal responsibility and the individual development of the child.
• Waldorf Education: Pedagogical concept that focuses on the holistic development of the child, with a focus on creative play, natural materials and rhythmic sequences.
• Reggio-Pädagogik: Educational concept that focuses on the child's curiosity and creativity and promotes emotional intelligence through artistic expression.
• Basic Medical Care: care services that require basic medical knowledge, such as administering medication, wound care or monitoring vital functions.
• Nursing exemption: Legal entitlement to time off work to care for a sick child.
• Child Sickness Benefit: Financial support for parents who are unable to work due to caring for a sick child.
• noracares: online platform that connects families with qualified caregivers and nursing staff.
• Fieberkrampf: seizure, which can occur in children in association with high fever.
• Asthma Attack: Acute exacerbation of asthma, which can lead to shortness of breath.