How do you handle gaps in employment?  I have listed a very short list of causes and some suggestions for survival. 

Gaps In Employment Can Be Caused By a Multitude of Reasons

 Self-Imposed Sabbaticals’

Illness in the Family

To Further Education

Unemployment

Birth of a Child

Showcase How You Kept Current Professionally

 Community Partnerships

Professional Development - To Keep Abreast of Industry-Related Changes

Build Your Brand Through Nonconventional Channels

~     Freelance/Consulting Projects

                                                   ~     Writing Articles

                                                   ~     Speaking at Professional Meetings/Conferences

                                                  ~     Serving on Committees, Boards, or Leadership Councils

 **Read trade journals and attended seminars in your field of expertise – This may come in handy for conversational purposes during an interview or networking sessions**

Focus On Your Strengths

You can’t change your employment history. Your career marketing portfolio should be customized to include your résumé (reflecting both position-related and convertible skills), leadership profile, achievement summary, and several versions of your cover letter (edited to meet hiring requirements of each position of interest),

If you are compelled to explain your gap you can provide a brief synopsis of your situation in your cover letter or during the interview.

Maintain a positive and optimistic attitude and be sure to let the interviewer know that you are excited and ready to return to work!