The only thing as inevitable as a kid’s sick day is the parental stress of a kid’s sick day. Lack of sleep, logistics, daycare worries and the anxiety of household germ management all instantly snowball.  

On average, kids get six to eight colds per year — though it often feels like a lot more. Children in daycare can double that. During these long Wisconsin winters, it sometimes feels easier to count the days kids are not sick. But there’s no avoiding it and the best you can do is prepare yourself and your home. Stock up regularly, have a plan, and save yourself the midnight run to Walgreens. 

The First Line of Defense

Get your child vaccinated. From measles to the flu, sticking to regularly scheduled immunizations can prevent or lessen the severity of many illnesses. We encourage you to speak with your pediatrician if you have any questions.   

For Fevers and Aches

Thermometer. It can be the key instrument in determining if and how much discomfort your little one is feeling and knowing if it is okay to go to school or not. Digital ear or forehead are usually the most accurate. But even the best can be not entirely reliable. Sometimes, with fevers, you need to trust your gut.

Pulse oximeter. A simple, easy, and relatively cheap way to measure the percentage of oxygen in the blood and monitor overall respiratory health. Remember that 95% or higher is normal, while under 92% warrants medical attention.

Acetaminophen and ibuprofen. Each can ease symptoms and provide much-needed comfort during a fever spike. Also, it’s good to have both handy. 

Bath/shower. The heat and steam from a hot bath or shower are a great way to soothe sore muscles. As an added bonus, the steam can also help loosen up nasal congestion.

For Sore Throats and Coughs

Honey. Children under 1 should not have honey. But for everyone else, a simple spoonful can go a long way toward easing the misery. Honey has been shown to decrease coughs more than cold medicines, and it tastes better.

Cough drops or lozenges. For children 4 years or older, these are another simple soother. They even make lollipops that can help reduce soreness.

Salt water. For older kids who can handle it, gargling with warm salt water can help wash away the bacteria in the back of the throat and speed up recovery. For best results, gargle for 15-30 seconds a few times a day.

Cold treats. Be a sick day hero and offer an unexpected treat. Popsicles or ice cream can lessen the most unpleasant symptoms. They also make ice pops with electrolytes to help support hydration.

For Comfort

Chest rubs. For kids 2 and over, menthol chest rubs can be applied a few times a day to open nasal passages and soothe throat and bronchial irritation. This is especially good for bedtime.

Saline spray. Whether they love it or hate it, babies will breathe easier with a few bursts up the nose with some bulb suctioning.

Extra pillows. If your child is congested, try propping their head up with an extra pillow or two at bedtime. This can help prevent the mucus from collecting in their throat and causing a cough that can make it difficult to fall asleep. 

Parent’s bed. Most caregivers put an end to their kids sleeping in their bed once they reach a certain age. But when kiddos are sick, the extra comfort provided by mom or dad’s bed can help them get the sleep they need so their bodies heal. They don’t have to sleep in there the entire night — but consider letting them fall asleep in your bed before moving them back to their own room. 

For Recovery

Drinks. Encouraging the drinking of water to help their body fight through the illness is very important.  The likes of Pedialyte and Gatorade can help replace electrolytes and be a great boon to hydration. And while sugary juice or soda should be avoided, anything that helps kids get down as much liquid as possible can be considered a plus.

Food. Simple broths and the likes of chicken noodle soup can feel hearty and nourishing. Hot foods can help loosen mucus and soothe the throat. 

Household Items

Humidifier. A cool-air mist moistens the air and eases breathing, especially while sleeping. Just remember to clean it often as mold can build up over time.

Soap/sanitation wipes. Encourage thorough handwashing, always, yes, but especially with potent germs circulating. Actively wiping counters and doorknobs and devices can minimize the spread too.

Masks. When one kid gets sick, it’s often just a matter of time before the rest of the household catches it. Masks help reduce the transmission among household members or when going out in public.

What Not To Use

Over-the-counter cough and cold medicines. They have been proven to be ineffective in children under 12. They also hide symptoms rather than treat the problem and many come with a risk of side effects. It’s usually best to let that immune system fight and figure things out for itself.

When To Come In

Don’t hesitate to bring your child to the doctor at any point if your gut gives the signal. Children’s Wisconsin has seven clinics with urgent care in Southeastern Wisconsin and the only pediatric Emergency Department. Knowing which location to visit is not always easy, so here are some basic guidelines.

Urgent Care

• A fever of 102 degrees Fahrenheit or higher in children at any age
  
  
• Ear pain
  
  
• Sore throat
  
  
• Pink eye
  
  
• Excessive crankiness or sleepiness
  
  
• Cough without breathing difficulties
  
  
• Rashes

Emergency Department

• A fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher in an infant 2 months or younger
  
  
• Blue lips
  
  
• Labored breathing, wheezing, fast breathing or shortness of breath
  
  
• Not eating, drinking or peeing, with signs of dehydration
  
  
• Chest pain
  
  
• Severe headache
  
  
• Anytime the child is getting worse

Of course, the ultimate sick day preparedness hack can’t be purchased at any store: compassion and hugs. Remember that your child’s sickness is likely temporary and their time of discomfort is when they need you, and your patience, most of all. Give them a hug, make up a cozy spot on the couch, and put on their favorite TV show — this will pass.