15 Genius Sick Kid Hacks For Parents To Try ASAP

Is your kid sick and you are struggling as a mom or dad to know how to comfort and help them feel better? These sick kid hacks are brilliant!

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I am a busy mom to four young kids and it is rough when one of my kids gets sick. Many times it’s a domino affect, causing our entire household to get it!

As a parent, there is nothing worse than seeing your child sick and feeling helpless. 

That’s why I have scoured the internet, consulted with other parents, and tested out various methods to find the best “sick kid hacks” that can help make this daunting time a little more manageable. 

From soothing remedies to prevention techniques, these are the top tips and tricks that every parent should know.

What Helps Kids When They’re Sick?

Did you know that babies, toddlers and preschoolers have about 8-12 colds a year???

Kids are prone to sickness. Their immune systems are still developing and they are constantly getting exposed to new bacteria and viruses. 

Use these hacks to survive the sicknesses your kids will have this flu season.

1. Get Creative for Giving Kids Medicine

Many babies and toddlers refuse to take medicine. So, what can you give kids when they are sick? Use these tips!

• Put the medicine inside the nipple of a sippy cup or pacifier. Make sure the nipple of the pacifier has a small hole. This was inspired from Honestly Autumn on Instagram. Watch reel here.

• Throat Soothing Suckers. Have you tried these before? They are so great for kids! These soothing organic lollipops for kids help relieve sore throats, and are made with organic ingredients and best part is, kids think they are having candy! 

• Tylenol Dissolvable packs. Easy to add to any drink. So easy for the kids that fight taking medicine.

2. Hacks for Easy Cleanup From the Stomach Bug / Flu

Is your kiddo complaining of an upset tummy? Get prepared with these hacks.

• To prevent throw up from getting on the carpet. Put glow sticks in the Botton of a large bowl, then put a grocery bag over the bowl. In the middle of the night your sick child will be able to see the bowl with the glow sticks. Put a towel or plastic liner under the bowl for smash protection. Inspiration from Honestly Autumn on Instagram. Watch reel here.

• Double line the sheets on your child’s mattress for easy clean up in the middle of the night.

• Wear disposable gloves to prevent spreading to you or other family members when dealing with the clean up. 

• Try Boiuron Oscillococcinum (a Homeopathic medicine for flu symptoms). For more details, visit Dr. Elana Roumell 

Stick to the bland foods, follow the BRAT diet – Bananas, Rice, Applesauce & Toast

3. Hacks For a High Fever

• Use a handheld fan to cool them down

• Wrap an ice pack around the outside of the clothes to cool down their body.

• Have them take a lukewarm bath 

• Try Boiron Belladonna (a Homeopathic medicine for fever)

4. Hacks For a Cold & Runny Nose

• Saline drops and the best snot sucker to help your child get those boogers out!

• Heal with magic socks. Technique from Dr. Elana Roumell. Get cotton socks wet, ring them out, put them on your child’s feet and put a pair of wool socks over the wet socks. The wool socks will try to the cotton socks and the body will work on moving blood circulation through your body which helps to fight infection. 

• Vapor rub works wonders for the tough coughs that usually come with bad colds.

Soothing Remedies For Kids When Sick

When your child is sick, it can be a struggle to find ways to soothe their discomfort. Here are some handy remedies to have on hand.

1. Warm Compresses

For symptoms such as a stuffy nose, ear infections, or sore throat, warm compresses can provide some relief. Simply soak a washcloth in warm water, wring it out, and place it on the affected area for 5-10 minutes.

2. Honey

Honey has been used as a natural remedy for centuries and is known for its antibacterial properties. It can help soothe coughs and sore throats. Just mix a tablespoon of honey with warm water or tea and have your child drink it.

3. Essential Oils

Certain essential oils, such as eucalyptus and peppermint, can help alleviate congestion when diffused in the air or mixed with carrier oils for massage. Just be sure to use child-safe versions and always follow proper dilution guidelines.

4. Steam Therapy

A hot shower can work wonders for a child with a congested chest. The hot steam helps to loosen the mucus, aiding in easier breathing.

5. Hydration Drinks

When fever spikes, it’s critical to keep the child hydrated. Prepare small hydration drinks for your child, rich in electrolytes to replenish their body. Try classic homemade solutions like lemon and honey in warm water. Homemade popsicles are great.

6. Throat Soothing Suckers

These are so great for kids! These soothing organic lollipops for kids help relieve sore throats, and are made with organic ingredients and best part is, kids think they are having candy! 

7. Elevate Your Child’s Head

This is great to do if your child has an ear infection. Keeping your child’s head elevated while they sleep can help reduce pressure and discomfort in the ear.

8. Salt Sock for Ear Aches

Make your own salt sock by filling a large white cotton sock with about 1 ½ cups of coarse sea salt. Tye a knot to keep the salt in place and warm it in a skillet. Make sure it isn’t too hot to the touch, and then hold it over your child’s infected ear for immediate pain relief.

Prevention Techniques To Not Get Sick

Of course, the best way to get through cold and flu season is to prevent sickness from happening in the first place. Here are some tips to help keep your little ones healthy:

1. Wash Hands Frequently

One of the easiest ways to prevent illness is by washing hands regularly with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Encourage your kids to wash their hands after using the bathroom, before eating, and after playing outside. 

Using hand sanitizer or carrying antibacterial wipes is another great option when washing your hands is not available. I store antibacterial wipes in my car, my purse, emergency bag, snack bag & diaper bag. They are a necessity if you have young kids. 

2. Boost Immune System

Make sure your child is getting enough vitamins and nutrients to keep their immune system strong. Incorporate fruits and vegetables into their diet, take Elderberry Syrup, Echinacea, Zinc, consider supplements, extra vitamin C, and encourage plenty of rest.

3. Proper Hygiene Etiquette

Teach your child to cover their mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing, and to avoid touching their face with unwashed hands. This can help prevent the spread of germs.

4. Immunization

Flu vaccines are available and easily accessible. Annual flu shots are advised by pediatricians for everyone above the age of six months. It shields againstthe flu viruses most expected during the upcoming season.

Bonus Tips For When Your Kids Are Sick

Here are a few additional tips that can make dealing with sick kids a little easier:

• Keep a “sick kit” stocked with essentials like tissues, medicine, and a thermometer.

• Use a cool mist humidifier to help ease congestion and coughing.

• Offer plenty of fluids, such as water and electrolyte-rich drinks, to prevent dehydration.

• Get some fresh air by taking your child for a short walk or opening windows for some ventilation.

Focus On Comfort Not Routine

How do I relax my sick child? 

While I aim to stick to a routine when it comes to my little ones, I’ve learned that when they’re sick, comforting them often means putting our daily routine on hold. I understand that might unsettle some parents. 

But dealing with sick kids often calls for improvisation and flexibility.

Sick children can be difficult. Their moods swing, patience wanes, and fear escalates. It becomes a real challenge to keep them composed. 

I’ve found that switching from a stringent routine to a more lenient, comfort-centered approach works wonders. 

Children’s fears during illness are often linked to unfamiliarity with the situation. They feel discomfort, and this unfamiliar feeling frightens them. I recommend keeping a calm demeanor and explaining their illness to them in simple terms to help alleviate their fears. Knowing what’s happening helps them feel less apprehensive.

When my children are sick, I offer plenty of reassuring hugs, their favorite meal or snack, and even allow them some extra screen time. 

Comfort becomes the priority. It helps to distract them from their symptoms and also aids in speedy recovery.

Remember, the health and happiness of your child matters the most. Taking a break from the usual routine and focusing solely on your child’s comfort will not only help them recover promptly but also help you manage the tough situation with less stress.

Comfort Through Distraction

Sickness and discomfort can make a child irritable and cranky. One way I tackle this as a mom is through distraction. It’s less about diverting their attention from being ill, and more about creating a comforting and engaging environment to help them cope.

Books can serve as an excellent distraction. I choose from a variety of colorful, imaginative, and simple-to-read children’s books. They whisk away my kid’s worry into different worlds, allowing them to forget their unease temporarily. Read to them, encourage them to read, or even enact the stories— everything works.

Storytelling is another powerful tool that I frequently use. I create stories with characters that are facing similar situations – maybe a superhero fighting a villain named ‘Fever’, or a princess who discovers a potion for cold. This way, my child feels more connected and less alone in what they’re going through.

Simple games are great distractions. Board games, video games, or even a simple game of I-Spy can lift their spirit and potentially reduce their stress level. Remember, the activity must not exert them but keep them engaged and entertained.

Daily activities such as drawing or painting can also serve as a distraction. Provide them with crayons, sketches or play dough and let them create their own master piece.You’d be surprised at the therapeutic effect these activities can have.

Related Post: 80+ Fun & Amazing Things To Do When Kids Are Bored

Sick Kid Hacks Recap

When it comes to sick kids, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. However, by incorporating these sick kid hacks into your routine, you can help alleviate discomfort and reduce future sickness. 

Remember to always consult with your child’s pediatrician before trying any new remedies or techniques. 

Here’s to a healthier and happier cold and flu season for both you and your little ones!  

So next time when the cough and cold season is upon us, don’t panic! Just try out these tips and tricks to make it through with ease. 

So stock up on your sick kit, boost that immune system, and be prepared to tackle any sickness that may come your way. 

Want more kid hacks? Check out these baby hacks to help get you through those tough baby years. These toddler hacks are great for the stubborn and challenging toddler years.

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