ML Interest Tag: common-cold

7 Things Every Parent Should Know About Pink Eye In Toddlers

by Melissa Heckscher

Let’s face it: Toddlers aren’t known for their good hygiene. After all, those curious little fingers are going to touch every nook and cranny (and iPad screen, remote control, doctor’s office toy, cell phone, and light switch) in sight. And those same sticky digits will subsequently head straight for their own mouths, noses, and eyeballs. So it’s no surprise that when a few too many germs inevitably get into your kid’s peepers they start wreaking havoc. Welcome to Pink Eye. Chances are, if you’re a parent of young children, this pesky little bug is probably in your future (or your past). But how bad is it? How do you treat it? And how do you keep it from spreading to everyone in your home? Grab your hand sanitizer and listen up: Here’s everything you need to know about pink eye in toddlers.

1. Pink eye usually looks worse than it is

So what is pink eye? Also called conjunctivitis, it’s an inflammation of the membrane that lines the eyelid and eyeball, according to Mayo Clinic. This inflammation causes the small blood vessels in the eye to become swollen and irritated, which makes the whites of the eyes look reddish or pink. In other words, it’s an eye infection caused by germs or allergies that makes the eyes look like you’re super sick.

But while those red eyes can look scary, especially when accompanied by oozing mucous, doctors say it’s almost always harmless in both adults and children. (That being said, call your doctor right away if your newborn has symptoms of pink eye.)

“Pink eye is super common, and parents worry about it a lot, but it’s not harmful,” says ​​Rachel Dawkins, a spokesperson for the American Academy of Pediatrics and a pediatrician at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital in Florida. “It’s not going to cause permanent damage to the eye; it’s more just annoying.”

The main annoyance is that it usually comes with a prompt “Get Out of School” card, which can complicate any working parent’s schedule. “It’s a common thing to get kicked out of school or daycare for,” Dawkins says, but she reassures parents that despite the hassle it’s not a danger to your kid’s eyes.

2. There are different kinds

Like the common cold, pink eye is caused by a variety of different germs. Most commonly, it’s the result of a virus—especially if the child just got over a cold, sore throat, or other illness. But bacteria can also cause it if your kid touches diaper-changing tables or other feces-infected surfaces. As for how to know the difference, it’s hard to tell since both varieties can have the same symptoms. In general:

Bacterial pink eye:

  • Thicker, crusting mucous that is green-yellow is more often bacterial, while thinner discharge is viral. (But not always, Dawkins notes.)
  • If it goes away in a few days—especially when taking antibiotic eye drops—it’s probably bacterial.
  • If it’s in both eyes, it’s more likely viral; if it’s in one eye, it’s more likely bacterial.

In either case, the treatment is the same, and both will usually go away in time without any major complications.

3. Pink eye can also be caused by an allergy

While allergic conjunctivitis is rare in toddlers (it happens more frequently in older children and adults), it’s usually easier to spot than its germ-generated counterparts. This is because it lasts longer and is often tied to a season (springtime, for instance) or a particular allergen (say, the new family puppy). Both eyes are almost always affected, and it also causes much more intense itchiness as well as watery discharge.

“With allergic conjunctivitis, you want to itch your eyeballs out, while bacterial or viral just feels like there’s sand or something in your eye,” Dawkins explains.

4. The symptoms can vary (except for the “pink” part)

Sometimes, the telltale pink (or red) eyes are the only symptoms of conjunctivitis; other times, a kid will have so much mucous that their eyes are crusted shut in the morning (If this happens, use a wet, warm washcloth to thin out and clean off the crust).

In general, symptoms of pink eye include:

  • Redness in one or both eyes
  • Itchiness in one or both eyes
  • A gritty feeling in one or both eyes or a feeling like something is stuck in your eye
  • Discharge from one or both eyes that can form a crust during sleep and make it hard to open them in the morning
  • Tearing
  • Sensitivity to light

5. Pink eye is super contagious

Both viral and bacterial pink eye are highly contagious, especially among the touchy-feely toddler set, who easily spread it by touching an infected surface and then their own eyes. While your child’s pink eye is contagious for as long as she has it, Dawkins said it is most contagious when there is drainage from the eye. That means if your kid is super goopy, it’s best to keep them away from other toddlers. Also, keep tissues everywhere so you can grab and wipe on the go, and try to teach your toddler not to wipe their eyes with their fingers.

Like any infection, the best protection against the spread of pink eye is frequent handwashing and good hygiene. We get that this is (big sigh) easier said than done with a rambunctious two-year-old, so do your best…and be prepared for the day you wake up with your own crusty eyes to contend with.

6. No, you can’t catch it from farts

We’re not sure who started this rumor, but it’s just. not. true. While toots may smell toxic, they’re made of gas, not bacteria. So, according to Dawkins, even if your kiddo farts directly in your face, it won’t give you pink eye. (But, maybe don’t tell your kids that.)

7. You treat pink eye with drops… or time

Regardless of the cause, most doctors will prescribe antibiotic drops or ointment when patients come in with pink eye. Drops work better if the infection is caused by bacteria (antibiotics don’t fight viruses), but in any case can relieve some of the discomfort and come with virtually no side effects—except, of course, the stress of wrangling toddlers onto the couch to insert watery droplets into their eyeballs. Hot tip: The easiest way to give a kid drops is to lay them down and have them close their eyes, then put the drops in the inside corner of their eyes and have them flutter their eyes “like a butterfly” to get the liquid in.

The other big reason to get treated? Most schools or daycare centers won’t let kids return until they are on antibiotic drops for at least 24 hours. “We do give a lot of antibiotic drops for pink eye,” Dawkins says. “It’s mostly because kids can’t return to school without being on some sort of treatment.”

You can also just let it run its course. Pink eye should go away on its own in 7 to 14 days, according to the Centers for Disease Control. In the meantime, if you can get your kid to sit still long enough, cold compresses can help relieve some of the inflammation. Also, if your child will let you try to keep the affected eyes clean by washing them regularly with a wet cotton round.

As always, if you think your tot has a particularly bad case, consult your doctor to get it checked out. For most parents, pink eye is just a particularly gross rite of passage. “They’re exploring their world, touching everything, and then touching their face,” Dawkins says. “It’s very common.” When all is said and done, rest easy that your goopy-eyed offspring should be just fine.

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3 Ways to Protect Your Baby from Respiratory Viruses, According to a Nurse

by Claire B. Crompton RN

Whether you’re avoiding germs outside your home or you’re the one who’s sick, here’s how to help your baby stay healthy

A few weeks ago, my one-year-old and I flew to visit family out of state. The trip there was relatively smooth, save for a tricky leaky diaper situation, but a couple of days into our stay my throat started to feel like it was lined with sandpaper and I knew that my first cold of the season was officially here. There’s never a “good” time to have a cold, but I hated the prospect of a rockier return flight if my daughter caught it and had to suffer through congestion and painful ear pressure on the plane. As a nurse, I went into germ-prevention mode to avoid getting her sick—and with a lot of diligence (and a little luck), it worked! (As a reward, she treated me to an uneventful ride home.)

Since newborn immune systems aren’t completely mature, they’re especially vulnerable to becoming very ill with viruses that are annoying but otherwise harmless in older kids and adults. When it comes to keeping babies safe from the season’s nastiest respiratory viruses, the good news is you probably already learned some of the key advice when you brought yours home from the hospital: Wash your hands often, pop a bottle of hand sanitizer by the door for visitors, and don’t let anyone who’s ill hang with your baby. But what if you’re the one who’s sick and you still have to take care of them?

As a nurse and mom, I’ve seen how taking a few extra proactive steps can protect your little ones from colds and other respiratory viruses like RSV, COVID-19, and the flu, even as they age out of the danger zone. Whether the germs are inside or outside your house, here are some of the most common viruses and what I recommend to keep them at bay.

Canva

Which respiratory viruses are most common in babies?

Respiratory viruses are spread by droplets that are released into the air when a sick person coughs or sneezes. We become sick when the virus enters our respiratory tract through either direct person-to-person contact, by breathing in infected droplets, or by touching a contaminated object and then touching the mucous membranes on our face such as our eyes, nose, and mouth.

Common Cold

Many cases of the common cold result from a rhinovirus infection. For babies, the symptoms of a cold and those of more serious illnesses can look the same at first. If your baby is less than 3 months old, cold symptoms or a fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher warrants an immediate call to the pediatrician.
What to look for: Stuffy or runny nose, unusually fussy, fever.

COVID-19

COVID-19 spreads much more easily than other respiratory viruses like the cold or the flu. In addition to coughs or sneezes, respiratory droplets can also spread from talking or singing. While kids aren’t as likely as adults to become very ill with COVID-19, some do end up in the hospital with respiratory support from a ventilator.
What to look for: Fever, cough, extreme tiredness, nausea, diarrhea.

RSV

RSV stands for respiratory syncytial virus and is especially dangerous if your baby is less than 6 months old. This is because if they catch it, their first symptom may be apnea, which means they take long pauses in breathing, causing their oxygen level to drop. Babies with RSV are often hospitalized because they require medical care and oxygen support until the infection resolves.
What to look for: Apnea, runny nose, cough, and sometimes a fever.

Flu

The flu is caused by influenza viruses and, as with RSV, your newborn can become much sicker than if you or an older kid were to catch it. The flu increases newborns’ risk of developing more serious respiratory complications such as pneumonia or apnea.
What to look for: Cold symptoms like cough, fever, and runny or stuffy nose. Can also include sleepiness, vomiting, diarrhea, fussiness, and trouble consoling baby.

Remember, you are the expert on your baby’s behavior and disposition. With any illness, if you feel that something isn’t right, don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider for guidance. Symptoms that require immediate medical attention include breathing much faster than usual, retractions (the muscles around their ribs pull in with each breath), wheezing, or lips or skin that is a bluish color.

a tired mom holding her baby who is looking at the camera
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Tips for preventing the spread of respiratory viruses:

As your child gets older, getting sick becomes inevitable—especially when they start daycare. But if your baby is brand new, or you just want to try to limit how much your family is home sick this flu season, here are some things you can do to keep respiratory viruses at bay.

1. Practice a handwashing technique that gets the job done every time.

I like to think about giving my baby a bath when I’m washing my hands. If I simply dipped her in the tub, dabbed on some soap, and then rinsed her off, she’d still be kinda dirty. To effectively reduce the spread of germs, you’ll want to work up a good sudsy lather. Soap contains ingredients that lift dirt and disease-causing germs from your skin. These unwelcomed guests are then rinsed down the drain. Your goal is to create friction as you carefully clean all parts of your hands while singing “Happy Birthday” twice to yourself. This gives you the recommended time (20 seconds) to get your hands adequately clean. After a good rinse, be sure to dry your hands well because germs are transferred more easily if they are still damp.

Related: Nurse Shares 3 Signs That Your Sick Kid Needs to Go to the ER

If soap and water aren’t handy, using hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol can help prevent the spread of certain germs. Use enough to wet all surfaces of your hands and rub them together, again for 20 seconds, until they are dry. Good hand hygiene at the right time is crucial to preventing the spread of germs, especially after touching public surfaces or blowing your nose if you’re the one who’s ill. Make sure your hands are clean before touching your baby’s face around their eyes, nose, or mouth. Remember, respiratory viruses love those mucous membranes.

2. Stop the droplets however you can.

Avoiding sick people is a good idea in general, and if you’re the one who’s coughing and sneezing, you can reduce the spread of germs by containing your respiratory droplets with a tissue or the inside of your elbow. But let’s be honest: when you’re caring for an infant, you don’t always have a tissue or a free elbow. As a nurse working in the hospital pre-COVID-19 times, if you had the sniffles but were otherwise healthy enough to report to work, the expectation was to wear a mask when doing direct patient care. I did this with my recent cold to keep virus-containing droplets from landing on my baby while I was holding and feeding her. If another member of your household is sick, having them wear a mask at home can help protect your baby and others in your family, particularly if they are coughing and sneezing. With sick siblings, this can be a tall order, but do your best to encourage them to cover their mouths.

a baby getting their arm bandaged after having a vaccination like the new rsv vaccine
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3. Take advantage of current vaccinations.

Unfortunately, there isn’t an effective vaccine against the common cold because there are over 100 different kinds of rhinoviruses and each one is constantly changing. But for other respiratory viruses like COVID-19, RSV, and influenza, there are vaccines available that are a great way to reduce the spread and protect those who have a higher risk of becoming severely ill. Mothers who have immunity against these illnesses, either from receiving vaccines or from actually getting sick during pregnancy, provide passive immunity to their newborns through the placenta or breastmilk. However, this passive immunity is temporary and protection decreases after a few weeks or months. Chat with your pediatrician to better understand the benefits and risks of each vaccine and recommendations for when you and your baby should get them.

Yes, navigating the real world while shielding your baby from so many seasonal viruses can be tricky. But when used in combination, these three strategies provide a powerful defense. Whether you’re at the pediatrician’s office for your newborn’s well-baby check-up, introducing your new arrival to family and friends, or traveling with your toddler, remember how respiratory viruses spread and practice these habits to lower the likelihood of your little one getting sick.

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What You Need to Know About the New RSV Vaccines for Pregnant People and Babies

by Melissa Heckscher

You’ve got a lot of things to worry about as a parent, but RSV shouldn’t be one of them—at least not anymore

On Sept. 22, the CDC recommended the first vaccine for pregnant people to protect their newborns from contracting RSV, a common respiratory virus that presents as a pesky cold for most people but can be dangerous for young babies. It also approved a new RSV treatment that can be given directly to infants to protect them during their first year if their parent didn’t receive the vaccination during pregnancy. This comes as a relief to concerned parents who lived through last year’s particularly rough RSV season.

But are these protective measures safe? Are the shots covered by insurance? And should you get them? Read on to find out what you need to know about the newly approved RSV vaccine for pregnant women and the related antibody treatment for babies.

National Cancer Institute via Unsplash

What is RSV and why do we need a vaccine?

RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, is a common respiratory virus that generally starts circulating in the fall and peaks in the winter. For most people, it causes mild cold-like symptoms, but it can be serious for babies, immunocompromised people, and adults over 60.

The virus is so common that nearly all children are infected with it by the time they turn 2, with most cases causing a fever, runny nose, and cough. But for some babies in their first year, the illness can progress to pneumonia and respiratory distress, with an estimated 58,000 to 80,000 U.S. children under age 5—most of them infants under 6 months—hospitalized with RSV each year.

“Regular, healthy babies can get very sick with this virus,” said Ashlesha Kaushik, a pediatric infectious disease specialist and spokesperson for the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). “This is more than a simple common cold virus; it can lead to big problems. Little babies can get very sick.”

According to the AAP, as many as 300 children under 5 die from RSV in the United States each year. Globally, it is the second leading cause of death, behind malaria, during the first year of a child’s life.

Until now, there has been no way to prevent babies from getting the disease (besides isolating them from siblings, family members, and the public), which is why Kaushik calls the vaccine a “breakthrough.”

“For years, the research has been going in this direction,” Kaushik said. “Finally, we can prevent these babies from getting to the hospital.”

Freestocks via Unsplash

How is the RSV vaccine administered?

The new RSV vaccine, called Abrysvo and manufactured by Pfizer, is recommended for women who are 32 weeks to 36 weeks pregnant from September to January. This is so it can protect babies born during peak RSV season.

The shot, given as a one-dose injection, prompts the immune system to make its own RSV-fighting antibodies, which then pass to the baby via the placenta. This lifesaving protection lasts in babies’ immune systems from birth to about six months.

Abrysvo is the same drug that was approved in May for preventing RSV in adults over 60 who are at risk for severe RSV disease. Older adults also have the option of getting the Arexvy vaccine, a similar product made by GlaxoSmithKline, but this has not yet been recommended for use in pregnancy.

Is the Abrysvo vaccine safe?

Experts say yes. Similar to the flu or COVID vaccine, the most commonly reported side effects of Abrysvo were pain at the injection site, headache, muscle pain, and nausea.

Kaushik said there is an “extremely small risk” of preterm birth from the vaccine, but that this risk can be mitigated by getting the injection after the 32nd week of pregnancy (as recommended). And while even the teeniest risk is enough to fray a parent’s nerves, Kaushik said the benefits of protecting yourself and your baby from RSV are worth the risk.

“If you have this protection available, just go ahead and do it,” she said. “Last season I saw how many admissions we had and it was crazy. The hospitals were full. We were in the RSV surge right after the COVID surge.”

CDC via Unsplash

Can babies get the RSV vaccine?

The maternal vaccine isn’t the only new tool to prevent RSV in babies. The CDC also recommended a treatment for newborns that can reduce the risk of severe RSV by about 75 percent. The treatment, called Nirsevimab (the brand name is Beyfortus), is produced by Sanofi and AstraZeneca and is meant to be given in the first eight months of life to protect babies when they’re most vulnerable.

To be clear, Nirsevimab isn’t a vaccine. Rather, it is called a “monoclonal antibody treatment,” which means the injection delivers antibodies directly to the immune system. Where a vaccine stimulates the immune system to provide protection in the future, monoclonal antibodies provide immediate and short-term protection. Still, according to the CDC, a Nirsevimab shot provides protection similar to that of a vaccine.

“This is another new tool we can use this fall and winter to help protect lives,” Dr. Mandy Cohen, CDC Director, said in a press release. “I encourage parents to talk to their doctors about how to protect their little ones against serious RSV illness, using either a vaccine given during pregnancy or an RSV immunization given to your baby after birth.”

The CDC recommends Nirsevimab for:

  • All infants younger than 8 months of age who are born during RSV season or entering their first RSV season (October through March).
  • Children aged 8 through 19 months who are at increased risk for severe RSV disease and entering their second RSV season (including children with cystic fibrosis or other lung diseases).

Note: Babies only need one layer of protection—either immunity via the maternal vaccine, or through the antibodies in Nirsevimab. They don’t need both.

Is Nirsevimab safe for babies?

The treatment was found to be safe and effective following three clinical trials. When compared to a placebo, the medication reduced the risk of contracting RSV by 70% in the first trial with 1,453 preterm infants. The second trial with 1,490 babies born at 35 weeks or more found the risk of severe infection reduced by 75%. The last trial looked at kids in their second RSV season who hadn’t contracted the virus and found that it provided added protection for babies with congenital heart disease or chronic lung disease.

A few side effects were noted: rash and injection site reactions. As with other IgG1 monoclonal antibodies, there is also a risk of serious hypersensitivity reactions like anaphylaxis, so parents should consult their pediatricians to ensure that their babies don’t have existing allergies to any of the ingredients in Nirsevimab. Parents should also be cautious if their children have significant bleeding disorders.

Are the shots covered by insurance?

The amount you have to pay will depend on your insurance company, though most private insurers will cover the cost of either the vaccine or the antibody treatment since both were recommended by the CDC (if paying out of pocket, the vaccine can cost up to $295 and Nirsevimab can surpass $1,000). However, it may take a bit of time for insurance companies to get the immunizations on their list of covered vaccines, so it’s best to check with your insurance company beforehand.

In addition, people who are covered by the national Vaccines for Children program—a federally funded program that provides free vaccines to kids who may otherwise go unvaccinated because of financial hardship—should receive either the vaccine or the antibody treatment at no cost.

When will Abrysvo and Nirsevimab be available?

The maternal (Abrysvo) vaccine is already available at many pharmacies nationwide, with distribution set to become more robust as we charge into the RSV season. As for Nirsevimab, the AAP said the rollout should begin in early October.

Can you get the RSV vaccine alongside COVID and flu shots?

Kausik said it is safe to get all three vaccines during the same visit. And Dr. Jeffrey Duchin, a member of the board of directors for the Infectious Diseases Society of America, echoed her sentiment.

“If it’s now or never again, it’s best to get all the vaccines you’re eligible for to get the protection against as many diseases as possible,” Duchin told Reuters. “If you’ve got the luxury of returning for more than one visit, you can choose to space them out.”

Learn more:

For more information about the Abrysvo vaccine: Acog.org
For more information about the Nirsevimab monoclonal antibody treatment: CDC.gov
To learn more about RSV: AAP.org

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10 Things We Should All Be Telling Our Sons

by Kipp Jarecke-Cheng

“Live by the Golden Rule… but also know there’s more to it”

What exactly does it take to raise a compassionate, empathetic, and open-minded boy? According to experts, the key is open, honest, and frequent communication—starting when boys are young. We came up with 10 easy yet important messages for raising a son with compassion.

1. It’s more than OK to show and share your emotions.
Boys traditionally haven’t been encouraged to express themselves emotionally. Instead, they are applauded for their prowess in physical pursuits like sports. Despite social progress that has definitively proven otherwise, “boys don’t cry” and “man up” remain common-if-outdated sentiments among even the most well-meaning parents. “Boys can have battles and want to jump off of things and light things on fire, and still be emotionally complex and need to be held when they are upset,” says Rosalind Wiseman, a parenting educator and author of Masterminds and Wingmen. Let your boy cry, hug him and tell him that you support him, always.

2. Don’t sweat the small stuff.
According to Dr. Mary L. Gavin, what kids worry about is often related to the age and stage they’re in. For boys, particularly tween-aged and teenaged ones, anxiety about their changing bodies and changing social dynamics can easily and quickly spiral out of control. Encourage your boy to focus on what’s genuinely important—like having a solid foundation of knowing what’s right and what’s wrong—and to let go of the trivial stuff.

3. Live by the Golden Rule… but also know there’s more to it.
Beyond teaching the Golden Rule, which is to treat others as you’d want to be treated, impress upon your boy that while respect is a two-way street, tolerance, and acceptance are just as important. According to Dana Williams, parenting columnist at Teaching Tolerance, the Golden Rule alone is insufficient. “There are times when we as parents must explain things that are painful and unfair—racism, sexism, stereotypes, hate. Times when we must comfort our children, times I have had to help my eight-year-old son learn that what some would do unto him isn’t always kind or fair.” Teach boys that mutual respect is just a start toward open-hearted acceptance.

4. Learn to walk in others’ shoes.
An essential life skill that parents should teach children is empathy. “It sounds a lot like ‘sympathy,’ but empathy is quite different,” says business and life coach Justine Campbell of Mindquest Group. “Empathy is about feeling with other people. It’s the ability to understand and experience another’s feelings, and to respond in ways that help, not hinder.” Research shows that while the ability to understand others’ perspectives begins rising steadily in girls starting from age 13, it doesn’t really begin for boys until age 15. Empathy is like a muscle that needs to be flexed over time to gain power.

5. Know that kindness is one of your greatest strengths.
Speaking of muscles: perhaps the greatest muscle everyone needs to use more is kindness. Encouraging boys to practice kindness will help to habituate them to know how to give and receive kindness, which will reap benefits in current and future relationships. Science has proven that kindness and generosity are the two driving forces that lead to successful, long-term relationships. Remind your boy that the more he uses his kindness muscle, the stronger it’ll get.

Related: 20 Empowering Things to Say to Your Daughter Every Day

a little boy who's parents are raising a son with compassion for others
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6. Celebrate those who are different from you.
If empathy and tolerance are foundational skills required for nurturing a boy to become a nurturing, caring man, teaching him to celebrate differences in others will empower him to recognize and love the differences in himself. Scholastic has a useful lesson plan and reading list for learning about differences that can help foster a greater understanding for both young and old people alike.

7. Share what you have generously and willingly.
Generosity is an infectious condition. According to Nancy Eisenberg, a researcher who specializes in children’s social development, children become more generous by having the experience of giving to others—and learning how good that feels. But there’s a catch: Eisenberg cautions that the giving experience needs to be voluntary. “If we force children to share, they walk away resentful, not feeling generous. Not surprisingly, they’re less likely to share after that.”

8. Recognize and embrace your own strengths and ideas—don’t always go with the flow.
Few people would argue that callous behavior is somehow innate. If anything, bad attitudes and jerkiness tend to be learned over time—and either tamped down or reinforced by our social circles. Studies have shown that rudeness can be as contagious as the common cold; thus, it’s important to teach boys that they have control and ownership of their behavior and ideas, even if the crowd does and believes something different.

9. Know when to say “I’m sorry.”
For many people, especially men, the two hardest words to say are “I’m sorry.” Girls and women often are conditioned to apologize, whether or not an apology is warranted. Teaching boys the power of saying “I’m sorry” will instill self-awareness and humility, and give them a head start in understanding that taking personal responsibility is a quality that will serve them well into their adulthood.

10. Be yourself.
Whether you’re raising a son who is a star athlete who likes to wear black nail polish or a math whiz who likes to watch Broadway musicals, letting your kid know that he is perfect exactly the way he is will empower him to love himself, no matter what external cultural and social forces and messages may be put upon him. Reinforcing the truth that there isn’t a single way to “be a man” will help to create a new generation of boys who’ll change the world for the better.

Related: 9 ‘Harmless’ Phrases That Hurt Kids More Than You Think

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12 Superfood Recipes That’ll Help Keep Kids Healthy

by Abigail Matsumoto

Ready to snuff out the sniffles? If you’re looking for a way to fight off those nasty colds and flu viruses, the food you eat is a good place to start. These kid-friendly recipes pack a punch with superfood ingredients that help prevent illness before it happens. And with recipes like chocolate chia seed pudding— these are the ones that will stick with you through the cold season and beyond.

Superfood Breakfast Bars 2
photo: A Healthy Life for Me

Oatmeal Superfood Breakfast Bars
Here are the superfood stats on these breakfast bars from A Healthy Life for Me: The oats contain an immune and cholesterol-boosting fiber called beta-glucan. The pumpkin seeds are packed with protein, magnesium, potassium and zinc. And the bananas and blueberries offer a few vitamin bonuses. Plus, they’re pretty to look at and easy to whip up. Get the recipe here.

Carrot Orange Juice
photo: My Fussy Eater

Carrot Orange Juice
Orange juice is a classic cold fighter because it contains a whole lot of vitamin C, which studies have shown can cut a cold’s duration by about a day if it’s taken at the first sign of illness. This O.J drink from My Fussy Eater also features carrots, which provide immune-boosting antioxidants and vitamins. For an extra antioxidant kick, you can also add ginger— a natural antihistamine and decongestant. Get the recipe here.

Slow Cooker Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup
photo: Life Made Sweeter

Slow Cooker Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup
Oh, good gourd! This soup from Life Made Sweeter scores major points both for its use of the slow cooker (easy dinner for the win!) and the star ingredients: butternut squash and sweet potato. These superfoods are packed with things like potassium, fiber, and omega 3s. Their orange hue also means that they’re rich in carotenoids that boost bone health and fight asthma.

Roasted Edamame 3 Ways
photo: Beauty & the Beard

Roasted Edamame 3 Ways
Edamame (a.k.a soybeans) isn’t just a Japanese restaurant staple. It’s also a fiber and protein powerhouse and its nutrients, vitamins, and antioxidants do wonders for the immune system. That’s why we love these soy-tastic edamame snacks from Beauty & the Beard. They’re simple to make and have a big flavor and health payoff.

photo: Julia’s Album

Parmesan Zucchini and Garlic Pasta
Sure, pasta is a well-known kid-pleaser. But this dish from Julia’s Album has even more going for it thanks to its hefty dose of garlic. In addition to being a good source of vitamin B6 and vitamin C, garlic contains allicin, an amino acid that produces antioxidants when it’s broken down. That means that this easy four-ingredient dish is also superfood-rich.

photo: Out of the Box Food

Kid-Approved Kale and Walnut Pesto
Pesto with a superfood, kid-approved twist? Yes, please! Out of the Box Food sets up kale as the main green ingredient of the sauce you know and love. This leafy veggie provides lots of vitamins and minerals (like folate, vitamin C, and calcium) that give little immune systems a super boost. You only need minimal time and ingredients to make this pesto, so the only question is: what will you put it on?

photo: Averie Cooks

Kiwi Agua Fresca
Psst! Did you know that kiwis are antioxidant all-stars? They actually offer more vitamin C than an equivalent amount of orange, more potassium than the same amount of bananas, and are low in sugar. All of that, plus additional nutrients found in kiwis, adds up to serious perks for the immune system. Averie Cooks has a great idea for a refreshing kiwi drink that’s naturally sweet and easy to make.

photo: A Dash of Butter

Frozen Blueberry Yogurt Bark
Here’s the deal with Greek yogurt: it contains probiotics that help the body replenish good bacteria and lower the risk of upper respiratory tract infections. It’s also yummy, especially when paired with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-rich blueberries. For an easy team up of the two, Dash of Butter has you covered with this pretty-as-a-picture snack.

photo: Crème de la Crumb

Red Pepper Hummus
Good news for hummus lovers! Crème de la Crumb takes your favorite dip and gives it a big health benefit boost in the form of red peppers. These veggies contain high levels of cold-fighting vitamin C, which means you can supplement a morning glass of O.J with an after-school hummus snack. For bonus points, dunk bell pepper strips instead of chips.

 

photo: Minimalist Baker

Overnight Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding
It looks like a decadent dessert and it tastes as good as one, too, but this pudding has secret agent superfood powers. Both chia seeds and cacao powder are loaded with immune-boosting antioxidants that can help fight the common cold and flu. Minimalist Baker combines both to create a dreamy creamy treat.

Easy Salmon and Potato Foil Packets
photo: Averie Cooks

Easy Salmon and Potato Foil Packets
The immune info on salmon is that it’s a great source of vitamin D and omega-3s, nutrients that help immune cells function and boost overall immune system strength. And you don’t have to get fancy to add more salmon to your dinner table. Averie Cooks has a great idea for easy-peasy salmon foil packets that also include citrus-y vitamin C.

Secret Veggie Green Rice
photo: My Fussy Eater

Secret Veggie Green Rice
Go green! This rice is a true triple threat, with spinach, avocado, and cauliflower as its main ingredients. Together, these superfoods provide glutathione (a powerful antioxidant that helps fight off infection), along with vitamins A, C and E. The credit for this colorful and healthy concoction goes to My Fussy Eater, who guarantees that it’s super easy to make, too.

photo: One Lovely Life

Blueberry Pomegranate Smoothie

This mega superfood smoothie is not only packed with healthy ingredients and no added sugar—but it’s also delicious. Thanks to this recipe from Emily over at One Lovely Life, your kids will be asking for seconds without realizing just how nutritious it really is. That’s a win/win.

—Abigail Matsumoto

Featured image: Denis Tuksar via Unsplash

 

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Science Says Chicken Soup Really Is the Best Medicine

by Shahrzad Warkentin

While there is no actual cure for the common cold, there’s plenty you can do to ease your symptoms. Before you reach for that cold medicine, however, the best remedy might simply be soup—specifically, chicken noodle soup.

One dietitian explains exactly how chicken soup can help fight colds: “Studies have shown that a hearty bowl of chicken noodle soup may help clear nasal congestion and ease cold symptoms,” said Sandy Allonen, a clinical dietitian at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston. “It’s all about the ingredients.”

Besides the obvious nutritional benefits of carrots, celery, and even onions and chicken, chicken noodle soup has some other healthy tricks up its sleeve. As Allonen explains, the warm broth can soothe a sore throat and provide hydration, the steam can help clear your nose, the salt can stimulate your tastebuds (encouraging you to eat more even when food tastes bland), and even the chicken can help.

“Chicken is high in tryptophan, which helps your body produce serotonin that can enhance your mood and give you the feeling of ‘comfort’ that helps make chicken noodle soup a true comfort food,” Allonen said. With all the bugs going around these days, it’s time to put the soup on.

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Low-Energy Activities for Those Days You Just Have None

by Allison Sutcliffe

Whether it’s a mandatory quarantine or the common cold, being home with sick kiddos is never easy. And if you’re not feeling very energetic yourself, it can be extra tough. So we’ve rounded up some simple activities that don’t take a ton of energy or effort from anyone. Check them out below.

table-fort-mamapapabubba

photo: Mama. Papa. Bubba

“Fort”-ify Down Time
Build your mini-me a special place where they can curl up with furry friends, pillows, and their favorite blankie so they can rest or take a quiet nap. Load it with lots of love and climb in for some snuggle time too, if your sidekick needs a little company. Soft and comforting is the key, so kidlets will power down with ease. Check out these inspired designs before you start building.

Pamper Your Petite
Plan a Sick Day Spa Session for your sidekick. But instead of the usual mani/pedi plus oatmeal mask combo, go for soothing activities and potent scents that help with stuffy noses and minor aches. A warm bath or hot shower is a good place to start. If you’ve got it, put in bubbles or drop in peppermint or lavender essential oils to soothe your sick kiddo. And if you’ve got a lavender mask or scented buckwheat pillow that can be gently warmed in the microwave, put them to good use. If not, grab your closest bottle of peppermint lotion and rub some on little hands and feet for a faux mani/pedi effect that’s oh-so relaxing.

 

photo: iStock

Party Like a Librarian
…very quietly, when you host a reading party for kiddos dealing with the crud. There’s nothing better than snuggling up with stuffies, blankies and the best book ever when you don’t feel well. Whether your mini-me cuddles up in bed or camps out on the couch, spend as much time as you can spare reading the day away. This is one easy activity that keeps them quiet and still, so they can get the rest they need to recover. 

Soothe Your Sick Sidekick
DIY playdough is always an easy option for quiet, low-key play. But if your kiddo is under the weather, adding drops of lemon or eucalyptus essential oil gives play dough a wellness boost your wee one needs. Whip up a batch, then let your little patient mold, roll, and cut out shapes galore. The lovely scents will soothe noses and hopefully keep the sniffles at bay, too.

ispy-jars-amber-guetebier

photo: Amber Guetebier

Spy Some Relief
Break out those miscellaneous trinkets and baubles your kiddo collects from birthday parties and holidays. Then put them to good use when winter colds settle in at your place by making an iSpy jar. Play this quiet activity alongside your bundled-up buddy by having them call out what they find, or checking items off on a homemade checklist. Easy-peasy play!

Sort It Out
Winter colds and crummy fevers are especially hard for the tot lot. But give them this quiet activity and they’ll forget just how icky they feel. Use colored pasta to set up a simple sorting game they can play perched in bed, from the comforts of a cozy blanket fort, or at the kitchen table so you can be close by. Once you’ve colored the pasta, set out bowls and have your cutie sort their rainbow pile into each, by color. When they’re done, they can easily string some of their favorites into a necklace or bracelet to wear!

wahi-tape-doimnoes-a-crafty-living
photo: A Crafty Living

Stick To It
Setting your kidlet up at the craft table to start in on easy projects keeps her restful without being bored. From duct tape beads to washi tape dominoes, here are seven easy tape-based projects your sidekick can embark on. Psst… most of these are just as easy to do from the comfort of the couch or bed as they are at the crafting table.

Serve Up Tea for Two
Tea parties are another simple activity that kids always seem to enjoy. But when they’re sick, it’s also an easy opportunity to soothe a sore throat or combat the chills with some mildly hot tea. Let your kiddo invite “guests” (think: action figures, stuffed animals or dolls) to your get-well tea party. Then brew up a pot of lemon ginger or Moroccan mint tea to serve at the event. Adding in a bit of honey sweetens the deal and helps the healing too. Party on!

 

Deal Them In
Tuck your little one into bed and then grab a deck of cards to play simple kid-friendly games like Go Fish, Crazy 8’s, Old Maid or War. Who needs the comforts of chicken noodle soup on a sick day when can you score serious points and plenty of much-needed rest at the same time with these card games! 

Doctor, Heal Thyself
Turn the tables on your patient when you let them play doctor. Break out the pretend medical kit, or if you don’t have one, choose real-life wellness props like thermometers and bandages, then let them be the ones in charge of making you well again. Taking your temperature, listening to your heartbeat and bandaging up your boo-boos should be part of the routine. Psst… this is an especially helpful activity if your kiddo’s wary of having their temp taken when they’re not feeling well. Once they see you do, they’ll feel so much better!

boulderlocavore-popsicles

photo: Boulder Locavore

Freeze the Moment
When they’re sick, your kiddo wants something sweet to soothe their sore throat. So why not make your own fruity popsicles that they can enjoy? Each one of these 15 recipes is bursting with real fruit goodness and loads of vitamin C to boost their immune system and get your wee one well…sooner. Bring on the vitamins!

Cut It Out
Have paper, will feel better. After lots of rest and craft time, that is. Choose any of these 30 paper crafts for your cutie to make while they’re taking a sick day. From designer paper houses to flashy funky glasses, these no-fuss options will give your cutie something to focus on and let their body rest.

 

photo: Clever Sparkle on Unsplash

Push the Right Buttons
All you need is a bucket of spare buttons to keep your wee one occupied when a winter cold or fever has zapped their energy. From making button bookmarks to hold the place in your favorite story, to playing Who’s Got the Button with mom or dad, any of these five activities should do the trick!

Draw It Out
Drawing a picture is always good fun, but it can be even more fun if you make a game out of it. Each person participating starts their drawing and a timer for however long you’d like. After the timer is up, pass your picture to the next person and add it to each other’s art! This is a great way to create some fun art and some giggles.

 

—with additional reporting by Taylor Clifton

 

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13 Absolutely Essential Tips to Keep Your Kids Healthy This Winter

by Shahrzad Warkentin

Winter has arrived and along with the freezing temperatures comes the onslaught of cold and flu bugs. It might seem like the only way to defend your family against the germs is by putting them in a bubble, but there are some things you can do without resorting to hibernating until spring.

Here’s our guide to keep your kids healthy during the winter.

Photo: Troy T via Unsplash

Flu season is in full swing.

Flu season took on a whole new meaning after the pandemic, but the virus is still alive and well. It’s just as important to protect yourself against the flu as ever, so head to the CDC website to get the complete rundown of flu season this year.

Speaking of the flu, make sure your kid gets their flu shot.

When given the choice between a shot and anything else, kids will almost always choose “anything else,” but when it comes to the flu vaccine, trading in the needle for the nose spray might not be the best idea. A study confirmed which flu vaccine works best for kids. (Hint: they’ll need a band-aid afterward.)

Sometimes, it’s not “just” a cold.

January through March marks peak season for respiratory syncytial virus—known more commonly as RSV. While this virus may seem like the common cold, it isn’t. Read on to find out what is RSV and what parents need to know.

P.S., it’s also hand, foot and mouth disease season.

Is your kiddo in daycare? Do your littles spend plenty of time around other children? Hand, foot and mouth disease in kids is a common childhood illness—it’s common for kids to pick it up this time of year. Even though anyone of any age can come down with a case of HFMD, this easy-to-pass-on virus is most often seen in children ages five and under.

photo: schlauschnacker via Pixabay

Have a cold? Science says try chicken soup.

It turns out mom was right: chicken soup really is the best dish for a sick day. One dietician explains how chicken soup can help fight a cold.

These are the Vitamin C recipes you need to fight a cold.

When it comes to vitamin C, orange juice is old news. We’ve hunted far and wide and rounded up a bevy of recipes that will upgrade your family’s daily dose of this all-important vitamin. From healthy Dole Whip to irresistible Brussels sprouts, these foods are high in vitamin C and worthy of any winter menu.

Pack in some extra vitamins.

Sometimes no matter how much OJ we chug, it’s still not enough. Make sure your kiddos immune systems are prepped and ready by chewing on a few vitamins. We recently tried Emergen-C Kidz Gummies and give them a solid thumbs up. They’re packed with Vitamin C, B vitamins and Vitamin D and taste like a treat!

Let the kids nosh on some chocolate if they have a bad cough.

Getting kids to take their medicine isn’t always easy, unless it happens to be a spoonful of chocolate. Your kids will think you’re Mary Poppins when you bust out the chocolate as a cough remedy and, according to experts, it can do more good for their throat than codeine.

Still desperate to cure a cold? Put potatoes in your socks. (Yes, really!)

When kiddo is sick you’ll do anything to make them feel better. One mom swears by this potato trick during cold and flu season. But does it actually work?

 

Photo: sweetlouise via Pixabay

Pump the breaks on the probiotics.

A stomach bug is never fun for kids or parents. In fact you’ll probably do just about anything to avoid the misery -and mess- that comes with one. Unfortunately you might have to count one item out of your parental bag of tricks as new research shows that probiotics don’t help stomach bugs.

Prep these mom-tested home remedies for cold and flu season.

Cold season is upon us, which means it’s time to stock up on home remedies to help soothe your kids if they catch a cold but may not require a trip to the doctor. These simple ways to treat a cold at home will bring your little ones some comfort for symptoms ranging from a cough or a sore throat to nausea, a stuffy nose and more.

Keep your kids warm and safe for winter weather play.

As temperatures drop, it’s still important for children to get outside and play. It’s a bit more complex as parents and caregivers need to ensure the children are properly protected from the cold. To adequately prepare, it’s vital to know the actual temperature and the wind chill factor, to know how many layers and what type of clothing will protect children in cold weather.

Follow these pediatrician-approved tips to keep winter germs at bay.

If you’re a parent and you want to protect your family from the cold and flu, going to a doctor’s office is the last place you want to go. Even though it might sound counter-intuitive, you run the risk of exposing your kids and those with compromised immune systems to more germs and making mild cold symptoms go from from bad to worse. Don’t fret—there is a solution to the threat of the waiting room.

—Shahrzad Warkentin & Karly Wood

Feature image: Vitolda Klein via Unsplash

 

RELATED STORIES:

Can That Viral “Potatoes in Socks” Home Remedy REALLY Cure a Cold?

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Science Says Chicken Soup Really Is the Best Medicine

 

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The Mind-Body Wellness Benefits of Tea for Parents

By Jaya Jaya Myra

Parents…we all need a little morning energy boost, midday pick-me-up, or evening relaxer every now and then. There are many quick solutions to reach for, but not all are as beneficial to our overall health and wellness. My one suggestion that’ll fix a variety of issues? Tea! 

There are fewer things more relaxing than sipping on a good cup of tea. For me, that almost always comes with a splash of vegan creamer (tilk anyone?). But whatever your favorite tea may be, at whatever time of day, the possibilities are practically endless.

While you may enjoy tea for its diverse flavors, there are actually numerous, potent health benefits that come with drinking tea regularly. Tea is one of my daily routines because it helps build synergy, allowing me to accomplish at least five different things at once. This simple act has tremendous benefits for physical health, mental health, and emotional wellbeing. Tea can boost the immune system, help fight viruses, decrease stress and anxiety, and boost mental focus, which we can all benefit from right now.

My Top 5 Mind-Body Benefits of Drinking Tea:

Benefit #1: Fights Viruses & Boosts Immunity
Black and green tea are known to have antiviral and antimicrobial properties that can help your immune system combat viruses like the common cold. Anything extra we can do to support the immune system right now and fight off viruses is a win-win, for everyone.  

Benefit #2: Powerful Antioxidants Fight DNA Damage & Reduce Signs of Aging
Want to maintain that youthful radiant glow and stay healthy at the same time? A cup of tea a day, particularly green tea or match, may be just the thing. Tea, and green tea in particular, is loaded with powerful antioxidants that fight DNA damage and oxidative stress on the body, keeping you looking and feeling young. Those antioxidants can also help prevent heart disease and even cancer.  

Benefit #3: Reduces Stress & Anxiety
Black and green tea contain L-theanine, a compound that helps fight stress and anxiety naturally. It can also promote a sense of calmness, while helping you focus on whatever task is at hand, making tea a great morning or mid-afternoon pick-me-up. Theanine can minimize the jitteriness of caffeine, but if you’re sensitive to caffeine, go for a tea that has less, like green, white, or oolong.  

Benefits #4: Drinkable Medicinal Spices
People have been making “tea” with herbs and spices for centuries. While these are technically tisanes if tea leaves are not used, I won’t hold that misnomer against anyone because the potent health and wellness benefits are profound. A common Ayurvedic staple is cumin coriander fennel tea, which contains a host of health benefits including stimulating digestion, which is the root of all health according to Ayurveda. Lavender and chamomile teas can help promote sleep and relaxation. Mint and licorice tea can lower libido, while green tea may enhance it. You can make tea to have practically any health or wellness benefit you want.  

Benefit #5: A Great Social or Self-Care Routine
Whether used as a daily self-care routine or a way to spend time with friends and family, tea has you covered. It’s one of those things that can be enjoyed just as much alone as in a social setting. It makes a great self-care routine because it’s both mentally stimulating and physically relaxing. Any consistent act of self-care will improve overall mind-body wellness, but with all of the additional benefits tea has to offer, it packs an extra powerful punch when added to your daily routine.

I'm a best-selling author, TEDx & motivational speaker, and mind-body wellness expert teaching the definitive connections between purpose and health.

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A Pediatrician Mom Shares 10 Tips to Survive Cold & Cough Season

by Kenzie Kramer
Partner Content

The sniffles, a bug, a common cold—no matter what you call it, being sick is a pain, and seeing your tiny human under the weather is tough on parents. While you may not be able to fully prevent your little one from catching a virus, there are some steps you can take to help your odds and ways to make things easier on your family when you have a child feeling out of sorts.

We talked to Dr. Amna Husain, a board-certified pediatrician at Pure Direct Pediatrics in Malrboro, New Jersey and mom of one, about her tips for making cold and cough season a little easier on her young patients. Read on for her ten tips to survive cold and cough season:

This post is sponsored by Children’s Delsym, the #1 pediatrician recommended children’s 12-hour cough suppressant* as well as the most recommended children’s cough medication by pharmacists.**

The Common Cold Is Very Common

Ermolaev Alexander via Shutterstock

We’ll start with some tough news: your kid will likely get sick. “It is really normal to have a cold. The common cold is caused by a lot of different viruses,” says Dr. Husain. “There’s tons of viruses out there, and it’s very normal for a child to get eight to twelve colds a year.” The good news: The sniffles are usually not something to stress about, and the average cold will last three to seven days—so you don’t have to worry about them being under the weather for too long.

Remember the Basics

You already know the easiest way to prevent illness, and you child probably does too. “It really goes back to the mainstay of things that we’ve heard so commonly like wash your hands and cover your cough,” says Dr. Husain. Remind little ones to wash their hands when they leave the bathroom, before they eat, when they come in from being outside and after they sneeze, to name a few. Now is also a great time to refresh your kid’s memory about coughing and sneezing into their elbow or into a tissue, when possible.

Sanitize Smartly

As a mom herself, Dr. Husain knows the importance of on-the-go options: “Nothing will ever replace soap and water, but hand sanitizer is incredibly convenient.” If you’re using hand sanitizer, Dr. Husain says to look for a sanitizer that is at least seventy percent alcohol, which will be listed on the back of the bottle. It’s also important to use hand sanitizer correctly, which means rubbing it onto your hands until it dries naturally, as opposed to wiping off excess.

Know What to Look For

fizkes via Shutterstock

Each child and each sickness will look a little different, but there are a few things you’ll want to check no matter what.

Fever: Kids can be sick with or without a fever, but if they are running a temp, Dr. Husain says the main thing to look for is that the fever is going away, either on its own or with proper dosing of acetaminophen or ibuprofen. If fever is not going down with the appropriate dosing of antipyretic medications or persists beyond 3 to 5 days, contact their pediatrician.

Hydration: When your little one is sick, there’s a good chance they won’t want to eat. Rather than focusing on appetite, Dr. Husain suggests closely monitoring their hydration. “When your child doesn’t get enough hydrating fluids and, they can get tired, lose energy and even begin to appear sick are much faster,” she says. If you have a young child, Dr. Husain says the number of diapers they put out is a good indicator—three to five wet diapers is ideal. With older kids, checking the color of their urine can let you know if they’re hydrated. 

Energy: Parents know their children’s energy levels. When they’re sick but still playing, it likely means they’re fighting the virus off just fine. But if they’re truly lethargic and having difficulty waking from a nap, that’s when it can become worrisome. "As a pediatrician, that’s something I want to know about," says Dr. Husain. 

This post is sponsored by Children’s Delsym, the #1 pediatrician recommended children’s 12-hour cough suppressant* as well as the most recommended children’s cough medication by pharmacists.**

Check for Retractions

You remember contractions, but do you know about retractions? “If your child is really struggling to get air in, you can see their muscles working,” says Dr. Husain. “We call these retractions.” Retractions can look like their belly popping in and out, the muscles in between their rib cage pulling in and out or their clavicles poking in and out.  If you’re noticing retractions in your kiddo’s breathing, it may be a sign that they’re struggling to get air—and a reason to get in touch with your pediatrician.

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Pick the Right Cough Syrup

kornnphoto via Shutterstock

If your kid is old enough, cough syrup can be a game changer on sick days. “I often tell parents you have to look at what’s in cough syrups because there is such a big variety,” says Dr. Husain. “You have to focus in on what you’re trying to treat.” If you’re using a cough syrup, first make sure that you are giving your child medication that is FDA approved for their age. Look for a cough medicine that covers the symptoms you’re trying to treat (cough, runny nose, nighttime relief) and double check the dosing.

Children’s Delsym® provides 12-hour cough relief and multi-symptom treatment just for kids. Children’s Delsym® has a single active ingredient, dextromethorphan, and is free from pain relievers, sulfites and alcohol—which some kids may be sensitive or allergic to. Whether your child has a cough, cold, or chest congestion, Children’s Delsym ® relieves their symptoms and helps little ones feel better. If you’re dealing with more than a cough, Delsym has Cough+ products for both adults and children with daytime and nighttime formulas. Plus, it comes in two flavors: orange and grape. 

Stop the Snot with Saline

No matter how many times they blow their nose, the snot still stays. “Saline helps to clear the nasal passages, which loosens the mucus and helps them to breathe a little easier,” says Dr. Husain. She suggests using saline nasal drops and suctioning or a saline spray after bath time (when steam has helped loosen everything up) or before they go down to sleep to prevent a post-nasal drip that may cause middle-of-the-night coughs.

Cuddles Could Be a Cure

Tomsickova Tatyana via Shutterstock

Sniffles mixed with exhaustion is a recipe for disaster. “If they’re in the safe age group, you can let them sleep near you,” says Dr. Husain. “That way you can keep an eye on them, and you’re able to comfort little ones.” A warm drink can also be your best friend before bed: think warm milk with honey, hot chocolate or tea.

This post is sponsored by Children’s Delsym, the #1 pediatrician recommended children’s 12-hour cough suppressant* as well as the most recommended children’s cough medication by pharmacists.**

Keep It Contained

What’s worse than a sick kid? Multiple sick kids. “The best thing you can do is make sure that your little one who is sick stays to their room, if possible,” says Dr. Husain. She also suggests designating their own bathroom apart from other kids and holding off on sharing toys, utensils and anything else for a few days.

If You’re Concerned, Call Your Pediatrician

As a parent, it’s stressful to wonder if it’s just the sniffles or potentially something more serious. “If you’re considering going to the emergency room or an urgent care, try to talk to your pediatrician before you make a decision go somewhere,” says Dr. Husain. Your pediatrician may be able to help you determine where to go next, if needed, and can help your little one get the care level they need.

 

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Dr. Syeda Amna Husain

Dr. Amna Husain is a board-certified concierge pediatrician providing quality pediatric care to children of all ages throughout Marlboro, NJ. At her private practice she offers a wide spectrum of services for young children including acute and non-acute sick and well-care visits, physical examinations, minor procedures, and lactation services for mothers.

* Based on the QuintilesIMS ProVoice Survey, 2016
** Based on Pharmacy Times’ OTC Guide 2016-2017

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