How do I handle a long gap on my résumé?

I have been out of work for 6 months and worry about the gap. Any experience at all would help. I have done some volunteering and a course during that time. How did you handle it on your résumé?

I listed the volunteering and course under the same dates and kept the explanation to a sentence in the cover letter.

A short, honest line such as 'family caregiving' is enough for most employers. They mostly want to know you are ready now.