How To Help Your Child When They’re Sick

​Children and germs seem to come together like butter on bread. We’ve all been there, the moment school opens up after a break, your kid comes down with every cold and sickness bug going, and it’s up to you to look after them while trying not to come down with the same bug.

Spoiler alert, you will always come down with the same bug.

While some kids are able to maintain their energy, they usually need a little more care when they’re under the weather. If your child has a disability or chronic condition, you might have to be even more careful with them.

So, here are some ways to help your child feel better when they’re sick.

​Give Them Time

If your child has a contagious bug or is unwell, they may have to stay home from school. In this case, if you can either take time off work or arrange to work from home, you should try to do so.

Younger children can’t be unsupervised in any case, so you’d need to arrange childcare to keep them safe.
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But children can be needier when they’re unwell and, if you’re concerned about the bug, even older children might benefit from your presence.

Plenty of Rest

It doesn’t matter what your kid has, rest is almost always the best way to recover from an injury or illness. 
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They will probably need more sleep than usual to recover, so don’t worry if they sleep in or take extra naps. If your child is particularly lethargic, however, it might be cause for concern. Keep a home thermometer handy to monitor your child’s temperature and, if necessary, take them to see a doctor or to the hospital.

Keep Them Fed and Hydrated

As well as rest, your child will need their other needs met.

Fluids are a go-to option for any illness. Water is best, but juice and other drinks can work as well. If your child has stomach problems and can’t keep any food down (or up), you have to be very careful. Sugary drinks and drinks designed to replenish lost salts and minerals are a must, and try to encourage your child to eat bland food until their stomach has settled.
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Many kids (and adults) prefer warm, comforting food when they’re sick. This chicken enchilada soup is a flavorsome answer to the classic chicken soup cure, as it has all the benefits of chicken soup with added flavor. 
Even better, an easy recipe like that is ideal when mom and dad are also sick because it’s quick, easy, tasty, and nutritious. 

Keep Them Entertained

Sick days are the perfect time for kids to relax while trying to recover. If they’re well enough, they might still be able to do some schoolwork, but a duvet day watching movies and playing games can be just what the doctor ordered.
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It can be hard to keep your child entertained if you still have to work from home, but it’s still a good idea to check up on them now and then.

Don’t worry, before you know it, your child will be back to their usual self.