I was banded on Tuesday, May 31st. I am still on Clear liquids. I have 3 kids - ages 6, 4, and 21 months. I have been lifting my 21 month old since Thursday. I lift him close to my body - not with outstretched arms. He is about 25lbs. My surgeon said this was ok - just not to overdo it. By Thursday, all I had was some minor incision pain. The hardest part with my little guy is that I still nurse him twice a day and he rubs his feet all over my belly - ouch! Anyway, today (friday) I am 3-4 days post-op and I feel totally great. I think everyone is different though. If you have a hiatal hernia repair, it is harder. If you have more incisions (I have 3), it is harder, and of course, some people just heal faster/ slower than others. I think your DH should definitely plan on staying home on Friday and then, if you can, play it by ear for Saturday and Sunday.
Good luck.
peace, nora