Work from home with sick kid

[Here]

I have been sick two days this month. E has been sick four days. I have stayed at home with her two days. We have the option to work at home sometime. Do you think it would be okay to work from home for some of the time to avoid using up all the sick leave and not getting behind? Obviously take out the time when I am caring for her.

My old boss used to allow this. I didn't always do it, but it was nice to know I can work on things if needed and also not burn through all my leave. My new boss didn't answer me, which is his way to say no. He later told me that he trusts me but wouldn't want everyone doing it. Our company policy is vague -- working from home is not a substitute for childcare but can be used if there is a flu pandemic and schools are closed. 

[Redpoppy]

I do it and my supervisor is okay with it. I sign out unavailable but my group knows they can call me. She also knows I only do it when I can work. If DS was needy or had an appointment I wouldn't. Sometimes I'll just get a half day in and take the time appropriately. The way I see it, she wants me to get my work done and DS is spending the day on the couch watching cartoons.

[takeonyou]

Most sick kids sleep/rest most of the day anyway.

[chessie]

I know where I work, as long as you don't take advantage its okay. For other occasions they require childcare though.

[anna7602]

I think it depends on how time sensitive what you do is. If you don't have to take conference calls or get a press release out by a certain time, I would think it's okay. Worst case scenario, if you can't work for a large chunk of the day because your child needs you, is your boss okay with you making up that time later in the evening? Ie, as long as you put in the hours, does it matter how they are broken up?

[Deleted]

My boss will allow it to a degree, especially if C gets sick while at daycare and I have to leave unexpectedly. The reality is though that C takes up more of my attention and I know I'm not really 'working' from home. If he naps and I get online for a decent block of time then I count it, but otherwise I claim it as family sick time.

[mrssandro]

It's encouraged by the boss here at my company. One of the perks I really like is that I can do 99% of my job from if needed. However, it's rarity for us. DH and I switch out.

[Deleted]

Sounds like he trusts you not to take advantage but doesn't want to set the precedent that this is a possibility for others. 

[rubytue]

You are a fed, right? My agency takes a very liberal view on telework. Supporting the need to care for a family member is specifically listed, as long as the care does not interfere with work. I thought that was from opm, but I can't find it.

[Deleted]

I am able to, fortunately, my manager understands.  I've had to work from home I think 3 times already this month because of sick kids (DH is unable to and would have to take time off) - and one of those was an already scheduled WFH day that we get on a weekly basis (rotating which day it is each week).  Depending on the kid home, usually they just want to rest and lay in front of the tv.

[Here]

Jan 28, 2013 11:23:29 GMT -5 rubytue said:

You are a fed, right? My agency takes a very liberal view on telework. Supporting the need to care for a family member is specifically listed, as long as the care does not interfere with work. I thought that was from opm, but I can't find it.

GSA was pretty liberal;OPM was less so. 

My boss just wants to make sure people are doing work, not trying to avoid sick leave. If I have a deadline or specific work to do, he will allow it. I will work when she is napping or in the evenings.