Caring for a Sick Child

Sleep is essential for recovery, because it helps the body fight viruses. While your sniffly child sleeps, a cool mist humidifier or vaporizer placed in her room can moisten the air and help ease congestion and coughing.

Fluids also are essential. When children are sick, sore throats and stuffy noses tend to make them breathe through their mouths. This can cause a dry mouth and increase the loss of body fluid. When caring for a sick child, make sure she stays hydrated with plenty of fluids, such as filtered water and fruit juices. Plus, liquids can help soothe sore throats.

For many children, sickness can be pretty scary. So, the best thing you can do is get close—and stay there. For example, let your sick child lie on the couch where she can see you, instead of alone in a bedroom. And, because illness makes some kids clingy, simply letting your child rest in your arms can allow her to forget her symptoms long enough to fall asleep soundly. Try applying Vicks® VapoRub™ to your child’s chest (for children older than age 2) if a cough is present. The cool menthol vapors can be very soothing. If you are looking to simply calm and soothe your child, consider Vicks® BabyRub™.

Try to keep your child's airways as clear as possible. Try Puffs Plus® with the Scent of Vicks® non-medicated facial tissues, which are infused with soothing lotion and the comforting scent of Vicks. Most older toddlers can be taught how to blow their nose, but if your child is too young, use a nasal aspirator (a syringe that sucks the mucus from the nostrils). Clearing up the sniffles before meals and at bedtime can make eating and sleeping more comfortable.

When caring for a sick child, give her temporary relief from a fever with a lukewarm bath. Plus, baths are a great distraction from the misery of a cold or flu.

When your kids are sick, they just aren’t themselves. And even though you don’t always have the magical cure, sometimes the best prescription is a little TLC to help send them on the road to recovery.