2/5/25 blog post

facing the dreaded sick season: tips to care for your child at home

With flu season comes stress and uncertainty for what to do – we understand. Your first instinct may be to take your child to the doctor, but most illnesses can be cared for at home. It may take almost a week for some kids, but sometimes illnesses just need to run their course. Read on for tips for caring for common sick season symptoms at home.

tips for caring for a cough at home

After having a cold, it’s possible for your child to continue coughing for about two weeks. As long as your child feels well otherwise, it’s okay for them to cough. Below are some tips to help with a cough at home:

For a “barky” or “croupy” cough, turn on the hot water of the shower and close the door to let the steam build up. Then, sit in the bathroom with your child for about 20 minutes.
A cool-mist humidifier in your child’s bedroom at night can help your child’s cough while sleeping. You can even try humidifier drops that release eucalyptus in the air.
Ten to fifteen minutes of cool outside air can help with a cough. Make sure to dress appropriately for the outdoor weather!
Cold water can help soothe the throat and keep your child hydrated.
Avoid over-the-counter cough medicines and cough drops unless a doctor says they’re safe for your child.
If your child has asthma and is coughing, be sure to follow their asthma action plan!

Call the doctor if your child:

Is breathing faster than usual
Has a blue or dusky color to the lips, face or tongue
Is younger than 3 months old and has been coughing for more than a few hours

when to be concerned about a cough

tips for caring for a fever at home

Fevers are very common in children – it means that your child’s body is fighting against germs. Below are some tips for managing a fever at home:

Treat a fever with Tylenol (acetaminophen) or Motrin (ibuprofen) based on their age and weight. Start with one and then you can alternate between the other if needed.
If your child is active and playful, eating and drinking, and has a fever of 101 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s okay to just let the fever run its course and fight the illness that is triggering the fever.
Encourage a variety of fluids. Small, frequent sips of fluids will help keep your child hydrated and feeling a bit better.
Lukewarm baths can also be comforting to your child and may help reduce their temperature.

Call the doctor when:

The fever is over 103 degrees and is not responding to Tylenol or Motrin
The fever has been steady for more than five days
Your child isn’t feeling better after fever improved with Tylenol or Motrin

when to be concerned about a fever

tips for caring for a sore throat at home

A sore throat is often a sign of a virus and usually clears up without seeing a doctor. Below are some tips for treating a sore throat at home:

Try Tylenol (acetaminophen) or Motrin (ibuprofen) based on your child’s age and weight. Start with one and then you can alternate between the other if needed.
Give plenty of liquids to prevent dehydration, such as water or ginger ale, especially if they have had a fever.
Avoid acidic drinks like orange juice and lemonade. These can irritate an already sore throat.
Warm liquids like soups or hot tea can be soothing for a sore throat.

Call the doctor when: