Recently updated on October 25th, 2022 at 11:42 am
Having a sick toddler at home is stressful. You’re worried about their health and you wish you could instantly make everything better. And while unfortunately, that’s not possible, there are things you can do to help them recover quickly and comfortably.
Follow the tips below to care for your sick toddler.
1. Plenty of Fluids
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Keeping your child hydrated is important because the symptoms of dehydration can often make an illness worse. Sometimes children say they aren’t hungry or thirsty when they’re sick, but try to give them easy-to-drink fluids in small sips every 15 to 20 minutes.
Parents often wonder how to hydrate with a fever. It’s very similar to hydration for a cold, flu, or other illness. Try giving your child liquids with electrolytes or clear broths that won’t upset their stomach.
2. Rest
The fastest way to recovery is through rest. So sometimes caring for your sick kid is a matter of keeping them in bed or on the couch. Offer them books, music, or movies to help distract them throughout the day so that they can sleep and rest.
Make sure your toddler has a comfortable place to rest and check on them often for signs of distress like sweating or rapid breathing.
3. Monitor Symptoms
Are your child’s symptoms getting better? Worse? Staying the same? Tracking the symptoms will let you know whether you need to consider calling or visiting the doctor. Ask your child to describe how they are feeling and regularly check their temperature with this thermometer.
When is a fever too high? Generally, if your toddler’s temperature is 102.2°F or higher you should seek medical care.
4. Keep Them Away From Others
If your child is sick, try to keep them away from other children. You don’t want to risk spreading the illness through close contact. Wash or sanitize their toys if you have other children in the house and avoid children sharing food or utensils.
Teach your child to wash his or her hands frequently when they’re sick and show them how to cough and sneeze to avoid the spread of germs.
5. Take Care of Yourself
When you’re worried about a sick child you often forget to take care of yourself too. If you have close friends or family you can call to help, don’t be embarrassed to ask!
Try to rest when you’re child is resting and stick to a healthy diet and exercise routine to increase your energy and mood. You will be a better caregiver to your child if you take care of yourself too.
Caring for Your Sick Toddler
You got this. Caring for a sick toddler is not easy, but you have the knowledge and patience to make it through. If you have serious concerns about your child’s health, call their doctor right away.
The best thing you can do for a sick child is to provide them comfort and assurance while they are recovering. Your presence will make them feel loved and at ease.
You can read more health and lifestyle advice on our website!
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