Working parents in the UK lose an average of £843 in earnings each academic year while caring for children with tummy bugs, fevers and colds, a study has found. Upset stomachs, colds, fevers and coughs were the most common reasons keeping youngsters away from the classroom in the past year.
Six in 10 parents take time off work
The study of 1,000 parents of children aged between five and 12 found that six in 10 (63%) have had to take time off work as a result – half a week a year on average. This led to increased stress (37%) and having to use annual leave (20%).
For 32%, their child being ill had affected a work opportunity, such as missing a deadline or turning down a project, while some were seen as less reliable. A third (31%) have sent their kids back to school before they were fully recovered, because they could not take more time off work or had important commitments they could not miss.
Impact on work and family life
The research was commissioned by Tonic Health, which produces Kids Gummies providing 14 essential vitamins, minerals and plant-based nutrients to support children's growth, cognitive development and immune systems. The company is working with its head of nutrition, Natalie Louise Burrows, to offer advice for parents wanting to support their children's immunity as the new school year looms.
She said: "A strong immune system starts with the basics. Nutritious meals, plenty of sleep and a steady routine in the run-up to school can help kids stay fit and ready for the term ahead."
"It's understandable that many parents worry about the bugs and viruses which can spread when children return to the classroom, particularly when illness can affect family life as well as school attendance. While getting ill is a normal part of childhood, taking steps to support overall wellbeing ahead of a new term can help children feel ready for the year ahead."
Back-to-school illness concerns
The study found 46% have worked from home while caring for a sick child and 44% have relied on their partner taking time off work. And 47% were dreading the return to school because of the bugs and viruses their child could bring home – especially as 30% believe their little ones are more prone to illness during term time compared to the school holidays.
Of those whose child became ill after starting school, 57% said it happened within the first month of term, including 13% within the first week. In line with this, 53% are concerned about the number of illnesses their child experiences each year. Parents claim it has become 'normal' for primary school-aged kids to have four colds over a typical 12-month period. As such, almost all (96%) agree maintaining a strong immune system is important in helping children have a successful school term.
In preparation for the new term, 61% spent the most time getting school uniforms ready, while 36% focused on new shoes and 32% on restoring sleep routines. But only 26% said immune support or vitamins were among the things they spent the most time preparing before school restarted.
