"Once you begin thinking about it, there are numerous opportunities to make Personal Safety Nets work within your own life and the lives of the people you love." James J. Marshall-Ward, Executive Director, Rosehedge/Multifaith Works.
How do I Juggle Sick Kids and Missing Work?
Q: With school starting, cold & flu season has begun. I'm worried about days when the kids have a day off, or are sick. What do I do so I don't jeopardize my job?
A: You've already taken one positive step. You're thinking ahead about a foreseeable situation. Now is the time to reinforce your connections to neighbors, parents of classmates, and community organizations. Your problem is not a new one.
- Brainstorm: Identify who can take responsibility for several kids for one school holiday each.
- Find out: Does the community center have a "school's out" program you can sign up for?
- Identify: Is there a respite care facility nearby? (A place that accepts drop-in sick kids. Find out the rules and costs).
- Check: Examine the wording on policies at school and work, and let each other know the exact details.
- Brainstorm: Look for other ideas, and know you're not alone.
By planning ahead and having your Personal School Safety Net in place, you'll be better equipped to handle last minute surprises.
"Thank you for writing your book Personal Safety Nets. I'm sure that I will read it a number of times over the next several years and draw new lessons from it each time."
Jeff Greene