As parents it is a good idea to become equipped with some useful hacks and tips to ease you child’s symptoms, and to also help you manage them during the illness.

Firstly, it is a good idea to prevent or to minimise possible cold and flu-like symptoms. Maybe invest in a humidifier. Humidifiers add moisture in to the air that helps to keep the child hydrated – reducing the risk of getting sick. Moist air keeps mucus in the nose from drying up and makes the airway less dry. Some humidifiers combine a comfortable humidity level with essential oils which allows the child to breathe more easily. This can in turn aid in their sleep patterns, ultimately helping you as a parent sleep better also. There is no risk to babies or children as cool mist is used, so there is no risk to burns. They are also extremely quiet which will mean they will not disturb.

If prevention does not work (this can be a good thing, as exposure will improve their immune system), then we need to ensure their symptoms are kept under control. It is important to keep them hydrated with water and to also provide them with vitamin C. Maybe instil a little fun by cutting fruit in to different shapes and sizes. This will aid in keeping their body temperature under control and to keep energy levels in check. It may also make them smile in the process.

Home remedies are a good idea. Their noses may be blocked. Use a pharmacy purchased saline nose spray to loosen dried up mucus – ask your child to blow from their nose to wash it away. Put 2 or 3 drops inside the opening of each nostril. Do not worry too much about getting the nasal spray as warm water can be just as effective. Saline solutions can be purchased at a pharmacy over the counter, or you can create it yourself by adding ½ teaspoon of salt from your cupboard to a beaker of warm water from the tap.

For mucus which refuses to budge, perhaps use a moistened cotton bud to help remove it from the nose area.

It is not recommended to give honey to children before they reach 1. For children over 1 year old, use 2-5ml, as required. Honey can act quickly to thin all built-up mucus – which in turn should help loosen the cough.

For babies struggling a little, breastfeeding is still recommended. If they are finding it difficult to attach, this may be because their nose is blocked, and they are unable to breathe normally. Maybe expressing in to a cup or bottle could be an option you can try.

Above all else, give them lots of cuddles and kisses. Symptoms should begin to subside within a few days.

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