As the weather begins to thaw and cold weather begins to come to an end, there’s a high chance your child will have some reaction to the change of season. No, we’re not talking about the pure joy they feel when it’s no longer freezing cold early in the morning and they have to be dragged out of bed for school. We’re talking sneezes, sniffles, grumbles, stuffiness and overall crankiness.
It’s far easier to nip this in the bud and help develop your child’s immunity – rather than have them fall sick and then deal with it. Fresh juices are loaded with the vitamines needed to help your child grow stronger from within. We know it’s easier said than done, but healthier alternatives to junk food and sugary drinks need to be reinforced. The weather may be getting warmer, but now is not the time to start drinking ice cold water and loading glasses up with cubes of ice. The weather is tricky and it’s safer to wait before switching to cooled drinks.
Let’s say the
worst has happened. Your child wakes up with an itchy throat and a
bad case of the grumbles. Now is not the time to snap back at an
already cranky child. Keep your mind calm and cool (much like this
pesky weather) and handle your child with patience. No one enjoys
being sick, least of all children with a low tolerance for
discomfort. Load your child up with hot soups (use your imagination,
there’s more to life than tomato soup) and give them your love and
attention. A good round of steam inhalation helps unclog their
sinuses and reduces the awful clogged up feeling.
Your first instinct
will be to pile a layer of blankets over your child and keep them
indoors. However, it’s getting better outside – warmer and
sunnier. Use the sun to your advantage and step out for some light
physical activity. Staying cooped up at home isn’t always the best
thing, nor does it make a crotchety child feel any better.
Drink lots of water,
as always, and be prepared for a little bumpiness that always comes
when the season changes!