It’s that time of the year when the coughs, colds and snotty noses start to make an appearance. No parent likes to see their child under the weather. It’s no fun for the little one and certainly no fun for mum and dad too. No matter how careful we are, catching a cold is a common ailment throughout the colder months but can be treated relatively easily.
Tigger is especially prone to colds and viral induced wheezes so I’ve popped together a little winter ailments: a parent’s survival guide…
Contents
Hydration
Your little one might not feel like eating very much or at all whilst they are under the weather. Whilst you should still encourage them to eat with yoghurts, ice pops or soup (all easy to swallow), making sure that they are hydrated is the key thing. Small sips of water throughout the day is better than one big drink which might make them feel nauseous.
Humidifier
Whilst central heating is a marvellous invention it does dry out the air within the home. This can leave little moisture molecules in the air and cause coughing to be much worse especially at night. Keeping the humidity level up during coughs and colds will hopefully ease some of the symptoms and aid rest.
Olbas for Children
With three children who suffer from sensitive skin I am reluctant to place lotions and potions onto them in case of a reaction. Olbas for Children is a gentle, yet effective decongestant developed especially for children aged three months and over. Made with a combination of essential pure plant oils, such as eucalyptus, mint, clove, juniperberry and cajuput, Olbas for Children is a gentle formulation to help children breathe easy and support a good night’s sleep – the all-important aid to a good recovery. By adding a couple of drops to a muslin cloth and then placing near your child’s bed (out of reach of their little hands), it aids the breakdown of mucus and helps lead to a restful night’s sleep.
Cuddles, cuddles, cuddles
Forget the household chores, forget that trip you needed to take to the supermarket and forget that ever-growing to-do list. When your little one is under the weather, all they want is you and your cuddles. So prepare yourself for a hot, snotty child snuggled into you for the next day or two and make sure you have everything you need to hand (oh and don’t think you can use the bathroom anytime soon either).
Creature comforts
Apart for cuddles in mum or dad’s arms, little ones need to be comfortable. The temptation is to wrap them up as much as possible but thin layers are best, so that you can remove them if their temperature rises. Think of it as an extended pyjama day, with blankets and pillows on the sofa for when they need to rest. Pop on their favourite DVD and your pyjamas (if you can’t beat them, join them and all that).
What would your winter ailments, parents survival guide include?
Disclosure: This is a collaborative post
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