Cold Hacks for Littles

As parents, we’d like to think that the cold season ends for our little ones (and us) as soon as spring arrives. Unfortunately, between daycare, public parks, and playgrounds, colds are definitely a thing at any time. If one hasn’t hit your house yet, I’m jealous. And if one has, I definitely feel your pain. It’s inspired me to put together all the small hacks I’ve learned into one quick post so you can bookmark it for when you need it.

Just a quick reminder that I’m not a medical professional, just sharing what I’ve seen work based on my experiences.

Homemade Saline Spray

When congestion takes hold of your little one, opt for a homemade saline spray. You can even let them help you make it if they’re up to it. All you need is:

• 1 tsp sea salt (Be sure to use sea salt, not table salt. Table salt contains additives that can irritate their nose.)>
• 1 cup warm water
• A pinch of baking soda
• Saline spray bottle

Add everything to the saline spray bottle, and then shake to mix. Gently spray in their noses and let it go to work. Repeat once or twice a day as needed.

Up Your Child's Vitamin C Dose

Vitamin C can help prevent and treat the common summer cold, so don’t stop giving it to your kids once their cold is gone. You can incorporate vitamin C through foods like citrus fruits, cantaloupe, broccoli, and cauliflower, or by taking a daily supplement.

Humidifiers

If you don’t have a humidifier running in your kids’ room, get one in there ASAP. It will help break down any congestion and clear a stuffed-up nose.

Track medication dosage

If you decide to use medication to kick the cold, or if your child gets a fever, make sure to track the date and time at which you give it to them. Skip relying on your memory and grab a piece of paper to tape on the bottle/box. Every time you administer, write the day and time down on the paper so there won’t be any questions about when to do it next.

Keep them hydrated

If you’re worried about keeping your child hydrated through their cold, but they don’t seem interested in water, trick them into thinking it’s juice. Pour a glass of water and add just enough orange juice to change the color. Tell them they can drink all the juice they’d like, and they’ll have several glasses drunk before you know it.