How do I make my child feel better? • Make sure your child gets plenty of rest and put limits on TV watching • Encourage fluids; like water, soup, juice and ice • Help your child relax by reading him a story and giving him plenty of TLC • Consider using a cool humidifier ***********Discuss with your pediatrician regarding the use of over the counter cough and cold medications. This is a controversial issue and definitely should not be used in a child less than 4 years old. How can I prevent my child from getting a cold? • Teach your child to wash his or her hands frequently using plenty of soap and warm water. Proper hand-washing should take about 20 seconds or the time it takes to sing “Happy Birthday” twice • Teach your child to cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or their sleeve • Keep the child’s environment tobacco free • Try to minimize the time your child spends with other children who have cough or cold symptoms • Pack easy-to-use products like disinfecting wipes and hand sanitizers in your child’s backpack to use when he or she is at school • Keep an annual well-child exam to follow changes in your child’s health • Keep all of your child’s immunizations up-to-date (The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines now recommend a flu vaccine for most children aged 6 months up to their 19th birthday) • Serve a balanced diet with lots of fruits and vegetables. Giving a daily vitamin may be recommended by your pediatrician • After your child is feeling better, clean all surfaces; wash the bedding and air out the room • Keep surfaces like door knobs, phones, remote controls, toys, and keyboards clean • Always make sure to consult your school nurse or doctor if you have any questions |
