Written by Mia.
Flu season can be worrying, especially for new parents. There are so many things to think about, from taking care of your sick child to making sure you and your other kids don’t get infected to arranging schoolwork if they miss classes. The good news is that you can equip yourself with the best methods to ensure a smooth and quick recovery for your children. You’ll learn a lot through these flu seasons. Plus, it gets easier each time. These simple, actionable steps will help you handle your kids’ colds and flu with confidence and certainty.
PREPARE YOUR HOME FOR SICK DAYS
Sick days are like a battlefield where there are invisible foes. Therefore, you need to be extra prepared. That means sanitizing, cleaning, and staying on top of the flu season. Build healthy habits for your family by encouraging older kids to wash their hands often and thoroughly. One bonding activity that can teach them proper hygiene is singing their favorite songs while you both wash your hands. You can also be prepared by making or having ingredients on hand for elderberry syrup, fire cider or a sinus steam for your family.
When it comes to items, always have a fever kit ready — one that has a working thermometer, a humidifier, a nasal spray, and medicine.
IDENTIFY EARLY SIGNS OF SICKNESS
Kids under 2 years old can catch up to 10 colds in a year, so it’s important to detect the onset of sickness early. Besides the common cold, some of the most widespread respiratory tract infections children catch are influenza, tonsillitis, sinusitis, and laryngitis. Each infection has its own set of symptoms, and each one presents differently among people.
Over time, you will build your intuition for spotting the first signs of a cold in your kids. Stay observant of their mood, energy, appetite, and sleep patterns — these will help you recognize signs when they’re coming down with something.
In newborns, symptoms of the common cold present as:
- High body temperature
- Sneezing
- Coughing
- Low appetite
- Fussiness
- Trouble sleeping
- Difficulty taking a bottle
ALLEVIATE THEIR SYMPTOMS
Sick children often feel uncomfortable, especially with symptoms like a stuffy nose and sore throat. Gentle remedies are recommended to ensure a fast recovery. The most important thing is proper hydration. For babies, offer frequent nursing sessions or pumped milk. Make sure toddlers are drinking plenty of water. Additionally, prepare nourishing soups that are gentle on the stomach and rich in nutrition to boost their immune systems. You can learn more about herbal broths here.
Bring moisture into the environment with a humidifier or by using a steamy bathroom. The steam helps ease congestion so your children can breathe more easily. Don’t forget to soothe them with gentle touches. Massage, cuddles, and rubs with cooling balms like Motherlove's organic Children’s Chest Rub to provide additional comfort.
KNOW WHEN TO SEE MEDICAL ADVICE
A good rule of thumb to follow is to contact a pediatrician when your baby, under 3 months old, has a fever above 100.4° Fahrenheit. Other symptoms that prompt immediate medical attention are:
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Vomiting
- Refusal to eat
- A tender belly button
- Crying more than usual
- Sleeping more often or being harder to wake up
- Sunken soft spot in their head
- Rash
- Eye discharge
You know your kids best, never hesitate to call even if they don't meet these symptoms! If you’re concerned, it’s best to see a physician to alleviate your worries and help you with your child’s recovery plan.
Taking care of your child can be overwhelming. Preparation is the best way to prevent sickness. However, getting sick is inevitable. Manage things by keeping a clear head and following proper home remedies to speed up their recovery.
This is all part of being a parent. You’re already doing a great job by improving your knowledge of how to take care of your children when they’re sick. With enough experience, you’ll be able to handle such situations with confidence.
