do you bring your child out in public stores,other kids???

grassisgreener · Nov 14, 2007

My cfer is almost 4.5 and has never worn a mask anywhere. We were definately more cautious when she was younger during the cold/flu season by avoiding people with colds (and other sicknesses of course) and avoiding taking her to places like Walmart that are known for germs galore. After "testing the waters" a little more each season, we really don't avoid places or take special precautions. We do wash her hands frequently, carry sanitizing wipes and stay away from play places like McDonalds but we would have done those things if she didn't have CF.

She goes to preschool, Sunday School, dance/gymnastics, swimming lessons, VBS, etc. and even goes to a babysitter occasionally. It works for her. She does get colds but gets over them in good time and has never been hospitalized. She does get the typical vaccinations (including flu) but never got an RSV vaccination. She eats a very well-rounded/healthy diet, we make sure she gets a good nights sleep both of which can help improve her immune system.

I would suggest you test the waters and try to let your child take part in as much of the fun stuff in life as possible. I used to really worry about silly little colds, even put her on an antibiotic during her first big cold after her diagnosis, which makes me laugh now. Kids get colds and as long as she can get rid of them fairly normally (some colds just take 4-6 weeks!) then I don't waste my time worrying about it anymore. Not sure how old your daughter is but hopefully your fears will lessen with time. CFers like to have fun just as much as any other kid!

Best Wishes!

grassisgreener · Nov 14, 2007

My cfer is almost 4.5 and has never worn a mask anywhere. We were definately more cautious when she was younger during the cold/flu season by avoiding people with colds (and other sicknesses of course) and avoiding taking her to places like Walmart that are known for germs galore. After "testing the waters" a little more each season, we really don't avoid places or take special precautions. We do wash her hands frequently, carry sanitizing wipes and stay away from play places like McDonalds but we would have done those things if she didn't have CF.

She goes to preschool, Sunday School, dance/gymnastics, swimming lessons, VBS, etc. and even goes to a babysitter occasionally. It works for her. She does get colds but gets over them in good time and has never been hospitalized. She does get the typical vaccinations (including flu) but never got an RSV vaccination. She eats a very well-rounded/healthy diet, we make sure she gets a good nights sleep both of which can help improve her immune system.

I would suggest you test the waters and try to let your child take part in as much of the fun stuff in life as possible. I used to really worry about silly little colds, even put her on an antibiotic during her first big cold after her diagnosis, which makes me laugh now. Kids get colds and as long as she can get rid of them fairly normally (some colds just take 4-6 weeks!) then I don't waste my time worrying about it anymore. Not sure how old your daughter is but hopefully your fears will lessen with time. CFers like to have fun just as much as any other kid!

Best Wishes!

grassisgreener · Nov 14, 2007

My cfer is almost 4.5 and has never worn a mask anywhere. We were definately more cautious when she was younger during the cold/flu season by avoiding people with colds (and other sicknesses of course) and avoiding taking her to places like Walmart that are known for germs galore. After "testing the waters" a little more each season, we really don't avoid places or take special precautions. We do wash her hands frequently, carry sanitizing wipes and stay away from play places like McDonalds but we would have done those things if she didn't have CF.

She goes to preschool, Sunday School, dance/gymnastics, swimming lessons, VBS, etc. and even goes to a babysitter occasionally. It works for her. She does get colds but gets over them in good time and has never been hospitalized. She does get the typical vaccinations (including flu) but never got an RSV vaccination. She eats a very well-rounded/healthy diet, we make sure she gets a good nights sleep both of which can help improve her immune system.

I would suggest you test the waters and try to let your child take part in as much of the fun stuff in life as possible. I used to really worry about silly little colds, even put her on an antibiotic during her first big cold after her diagnosis, which makes me laugh now. Kids get colds and as long as she can get rid of them fairly normally (some colds just take 4-6 weeks!) then I don't waste my time worrying about it anymore. Not sure how old your daughter is but hopefully your fears will lessen with time. CFers like to have fun just as much as any other kid!

Best Wishes!

grassisgreener · Nov 14, 2007

My cfer is almost 4.5 and has never worn a mask anywhere. We were definately more cautious when she was younger during the cold/flu season by avoiding people with colds (and other sicknesses of course) and avoiding taking her to places like Walmart that are known for germs galore. After "testing the waters" a little more each season, we really don't avoid places or take special precautions. We do wash her hands frequently, carry sanitizing wipes and stay away from play places like McDonalds but we would have done those things if she didn't have CF.

She goes to preschool, Sunday School, dance/gymnastics, swimming lessons, VBS, etc. and even goes to a babysitter occasionally. It works for her. She does get colds but gets over them in good time and has never been hospitalized. She does get the typical vaccinations (including flu) but never got an RSV vaccination. She eats a very well-rounded/healthy diet, we make sure she gets a good nights sleep both of which can help improve her immune system.

I would suggest you test the waters and try to let your child take part in as much of the fun stuff in life as possible. I used to really worry about silly little colds, even put her on an antibiotic during her first big cold after her diagnosis, which makes me laugh now. Kids get colds and as long as she can get rid of them fairly normally (some colds just take 4-6 weeks!) then I don't waste my time worrying about it anymore. Not sure how old your daughter is but hopefully your fears will lessen with time. CFers like to have fun just as much as any other kid!

Best Wishes!

grassisgreener · Nov 14, 2007

My cfer is almost 4.5 and has never worn a mask anywhere. We were definately more cautious when she was younger during the cold/flu season by avoiding people with colds (and other sicknesses of course) and avoiding taking her to places like Walmart that are known for germs galore. After "testing the waters" a little more each season, we really don't avoid places or take special precautions. We do wash her hands frequently, carry sanitizing wipes and stay away from play places like McDonalds but we would have done those things if she didn't have CF.

She goes to preschool, Sunday School, dance/gymnastics, swimming lessons, VBS, etc. and even goes to a babysitter occasionally. It works for her. She does get colds but gets over them in good time and has never been hospitalized. She does get the typical vaccinations (including flu) but never got an RSV vaccination. She eats a very well-rounded/healthy diet, we make sure she gets a good nights sleep both of which can help improve her immune system.

I would suggest you test the waters and try to let your child take part in as much of the fun stuff in life as possible. I used to really worry about silly little colds, even put her on an antibiotic during her first big cold after her diagnosis, which makes me laugh now. Kids get colds and as long as she can get rid of them fairly normally (some colds just take 4-6 weeks!) then I don't waste my time worrying about it anymore. Not sure how old your daughter is but hopefully your fears will lessen with time. CFers like to have fun just as much as any other kid!

Best Wishes!

JazzysMom · Nov 14, 2007

I never wear masks in public. The closest has been when I visited Joni in the hospital & that was so we could hug & she felt "safe" since she doesnt culture PA yet.

Just a little extra to throw in here....my daughter (NO CF) was born 4 weeks early. I had her out & visiting the girls I worked with at our local hospital when she was 8 days old.

I got a lot of slack for that, but I know it came from both wanting to show her off to just using common sense. I was selective about who held her (no sickies etc) & they had to wash their hands.

I have had more issues for her & I since she started school & even then it was when she was older & the teachers werent right over them telling everyone to wash hands etc.

As an older CFer I hope you can find that balance for your peace of mind yet your childs health safety......

We already have enough to make us "different" I really would hate to see that bite you in the butt with the "over protective" mode.

As many said.....you need to find the balance!

HUGS

JazzysMom · Nov 14, 2007

I never wear masks in public. The closest has been when I visited Joni in the hospital & that was so we could hug & she felt "safe" since she doesnt culture PA yet.

Just a little extra to throw in here....my daughter (NO CF) was born 4 weeks early. I had her out & visiting the girls I worked with at our local hospital when she was 8 days old.

I got a lot of slack for that, but I know it came from both wanting to show her off to just using common sense. I was selective about who held her (no sickies etc) & they had to wash their hands.

I have had more issues for her & I since she started school & even then it was when she was older & the teachers werent right over them telling everyone to wash hands etc.

As an older CFer I hope you can find that balance for your peace of mind yet your childs health safety......

We already have enough to make us "different" I really would hate to see that bite you in the butt with the "over protective" mode.

As many said.....you need to find the balance!

HUGS

JazzysMom · Nov 14, 2007

I never wear masks in public. The closest has been when I visited Joni in the hospital & that was so we could hug & she felt "safe" since she doesnt culture PA yet.

Just a little extra to throw in here....my daughter (NO CF) was born 4 weeks early. I had her out & visiting the girls I worked with at our local hospital when she was 8 days old.

I got a lot of slack for that, but I know it came from both wanting to show her off to just using common sense. I was selective about who held her (no sickies etc) & they had to wash their hands.

I have had more issues for her & I since she started school & even then it was when she was older & the teachers werent right over them telling everyone to wash hands etc.

As an older CFer I hope you can find that balance for your peace of mind yet your childs health safety......

We already have enough to make us "different" I really would hate to see that bite you in the butt with the "over protective" mode.

As many said.....you need to find the balance!

HUGS

JazzysMom · Nov 14, 2007

I never wear masks in public. The closest has been when I visited Joni in the hospital & that was so we could hug & she felt "safe" since she doesnt culture PA yet.

Just a little extra to throw in here....my daughter (NO CF) was born 4 weeks early. I had her out & visiting the girls I worked with at our local hospital when she was 8 days old.

I got a lot of slack for that, but I know it came from both wanting to show her off to just using common sense. I was selective about who held her (no sickies etc) & they had to wash their hands.

I have had more issues for her & I since she started school & even then it was when she was older & the teachers werent right over them telling everyone to wash hands etc.

As an older CFer I hope you can find that balance for your peace of mind yet your childs health safety......

We already have enough to make us "different" I really would hate to see that bite you in the butt with the "over protective" mode.

As many said.....you need to find the balance!

HUGS

JazzysMom · Nov 14, 2007

I never wear masks in public. The closest has been when I visited Joni in the hospital & that was so we could hug & she felt "safe" since she doesnt culture PA yet.

Just a little extra to throw in here....my daughter (NO CF) was born 4 weeks early. I had her out & visiting the girls I worked with at our local hospital when she was 8 days old.

I got a lot of slack for that, but I know it came from both wanting to show her off to just using common sense. I was selective about who held her (no sickies etc) & they had to wash their hands.

I have had more issues for her & I since she started school & even then it was when she was older & the teachers werent right over them telling everyone to wash hands etc.

As an older CFer I hope you can find that balance for your peace of mind yet your childs health safety......

We already have enough to make us "different" I really would hate to see that bite you in the butt with the "over protective" mode.

As many said.....you need to find the balance!

HUGS

TonyaH · Nov 14, 2007

Hi Age,

It is such a difficult thing for a new parent to deal with. I agree with everyone here. Take the logical steps to keep germs at bay, but don't forget to live your life. Our docs told us how important the first two years of life are and we were bound and determined to keep him cold-free for the first two years. I worked part time and a neighbor (who has become an adoptive grandma to both of my children), kept him a few days a week at her very clean home so I didn't have to worry about overexposure to what was going around. However, I forgot that germs are everywhere and unless my husband and I were going to stay home all day live in a bubble, Andrew was goind to be exposed to germs.

We did shelter Andrew a little bit for the first year and half from playing in large groups of kids. I didn't realize it was a problem until I began to notice him having more trouble sharing, etc. than other kids his age. At that point I dropped that form of "overprotection" and got him involved in activities that helped him catch up socially. But, it took awhile. Even into preschool he was a little stinker.

Like others have said...balance, balance, balance!
Good luck,

TonyaH · Nov 14, 2007

Hi Age,

It is such a difficult thing for a new parent to deal with. I agree with everyone here. Take the logical steps to keep germs at bay, but don't forget to live your life. Our docs told us how important the first two years of life are and we were bound and determined to keep him cold-free for the first two years. I worked part time and a neighbor (who has become an adoptive grandma to both of my children), kept him a few days a week at her very clean home so I didn't have to worry about overexposure to what was going around. However, I forgot that germs are everywhere and unless my husband and I were going to stay home all day live in a bubble, Andrew was goind to be exposed to germs.

We did shelter Andrew a little bit for the first year and half from playing in large groups of kids. I didn't realize it was a problem until I began to notice him having more trouble sharing, etc. than other kids his age. At that point I dropped that form of "overprotection" and got him involved in activities that helped him catch up socially. But, it took awhile. Even into preschool he was a little stinker.

Like others have said...balance, balance, balance!
Good luck,

TonyaH · Nov 14, 2007

Hi Age,

It is such a difficult thing for a new parent to deal with. I agree with everyone here. Take the logical steps to keep germs at bay, but don't forget to live your life. Our docs told us how important the first two years of life are and we were bound and determined to keep him cold-free for the first two years. I worked part time and a neighbor (who has become an adoptive grandma to both of my children), kept him a few days a week at her very clean home so I didn't have to worry about overexposure to what was going around. However, I forgot that germs are everywhere and unless my husband and I were going to stay home all day live in a bubble, Andrew was goind to be exposed to germs.

We did shelter Andrew a little bit for the first year and half from playing in large groups of kids. I didn't realize it was a problem until I began to notice him having more trouble sharing, etc. than other kids his age. At that point I dropped that form of "overprotection" and got him involved in activities that helped him catch up socially. But, it took awhile. Even into preschool he was a little stinker.

Like others have said...balance, balance, balance!
Good luck,

TonyaH · Nov 14, 2007

Hi Age,

It is such a difficult thing for a new parent to deal with. I agree with everyone here. Take the logical steps to keep germs at bay, but don't forget to live your life. Our docs told us how important the first two years of life are and we were bound and determined to keep him cold-free for the first two years. I worked part time and a neighbor (who has become an adoptive grandma to both of my children), kept him a few days a week at her very clean home so I didn't have to worry about overexposure to what was going around. However, I forgot that germs are everywhere and unless my husband and I were going to stay home all day live in a bubble, Andrew was goind to be exposed to germs.

We did shelter Andrew a little bit for the first year and half from playing in large groups of kids. I didn't realize it was a problem until I began to notice him having more trouble sharing, etc. than other kids his age. At that point I dropped that form of "overprotection" and got him involved in activities that helped him catch up socially. But, it took awhile. Even into preschool he was a little stinker.

Like others have said...balance, balance, balance!
Good luck,

TonyaH · Nov 14, 2007

Hi Age,

It is such a difficult thing for a new parent to deal with. I agree with everyone here. Take the logical steps to keep germs at bay, but don't forget to live your life. Our docs told us how important the first two years of life are and we were bound and determined to keep him cold-free for the first two years. I worked part time and a neighbor (who has become an adoptive grandma to both of my children), kept him a few days a week at her very clean home so I didn't have to worry about overexposure to what was going around. However, I forgot that germs are everywhere and unless my husband and I were going to stay home all day live in a bubble, Andrew was goind to be exposed to germs.

We did shelter Andrew a little bit for the first year and half from playing in large groups of kids. I didn't realize it was a problem until I began to notice him having more trouble sharing, etc. than other kids his age. At that point I dropped that form of "overprotection" and got him involved in activities that helped him catch up socially. But, it took awhile. Even into preschool he was a little stinker.

Like others have said...balance, balance, balance!
Good luck,

age · Nov 14, 2007