unfortunately kids will be kids whether you are ill or not, that's their role in life. Children who are expected to be carer to adult parents miss out on important things kids do which are the building blocks of becoming well rounded adults. Other halfs on the other hand should be aware of and willing to do more of the childcare whilst you are ill, but can not be expected to work, take full charge of the childcare and take care of you too. part of being an adult is being able to take care of yourself. Ok eveyone needs taking care of from time to time, that's what hospitals and carers are for.

try making a box of quiet toys/games/films/things which your children are unable to access - keep it in the top of your wardrobe, only get it out for them on days when you need peace, new toys/books etc always make for happy kids, happy kids make for easy times for parents! i always found the film Spider was a great one for youngsters as it always captured their attention yet was not full of bangs and loud noises!