Health & Life

Protect Your Child From Catching a Cold: A Parent’s Evening Routine Checklist.

As summer approaches, parents often go to great lengths to keep their children cool. However, their efforts can sometimes backfire, resulting in their little ones catching a cold. To prevent this from happening, it is important for parents to keep the following tips in mind during the evening hours.

Administrator

9 July, 2024

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On hot and humid days, the high temperatures can be uncomfortable, and parents often resort to bathing their children, sitting them in front of fans, or keeping the air conditioning on. However, young children are susceptible to heat stroke and catching a cold if the temperature changes too drastically.

So, to prevent your child from catching a cold during hot weather, avoid the following at night!

1 Avoid Setting the Air Conditioner Too Low

Many parents, out of concern for their child’s sleep in hot weather, tend to set the air conditioner to a very low temperature. However, it’s important to know that extremely hot or cold environments pose equal risks to infants’ health.

Instead, on hot days, it’s recommended to set the air conditioner between 26°C and 28°C while your child sleeps. This temperature range provides a comfortable and healthier environment for your little one.

Avoid Setting the Air Conditioner Too Low

2 Don’t Keep Your Child in the Air-Conditioned Room for Too Long

When the air conditioner is running, windows and doors are usually kept closed to maintain the cool temperature. However, stale air in a closed room for extended periods can be detrimental to your child’s health.

It’s advisable to open the windows for 5-10 minutes after several hours to allow fresh air to circulate. At night, set the air conditioner to “sleep mode” so that the temperature automatically adjusts upwards after midnight, ensuring your child doesn’t get too cold.

Don’t Keep Your Child in the Air-Conditioned Room for Too Long

3 Don’t Let Your Child Sleep with an Exposed Tummy

An infant’s belly button area is sensitive, and exposing it to cold air can easily lead to a cold or stomach ache. Therefore, it’s best to dress your child in a one-piece sleeper that covers their tummy to prevent exposure during sleep.

Don’t Let Your Child Sleep with an Exposed Tummy

4 Avoid Letting Your Child Sleep Directly on a Cooling Mat or Pad

During summer, families often use bamboo mats, cooling pads, or water beds for a refreshing and comfortable sleep. However, these items should not be used for infants in air-conditioned rooms as the low temperatures can cause backaches and increase the risk of catching a cold.

Additionally, the hardness of these mats can disrupt your child’s sleep. Instead, opt for a mattress with an appropriate level of softness, and if you wish to use a mat, place a towel or blanket underneath your child’s back for added comfort.

Avoid Letting Your Child Sleep Directly on a Cooling Mat or Pad

These are four crucial things to avoid at night to prevent your infant from catching a cold. We hope this information helps you better care for your child’s health!

Source: Sohu

Frequently asked questions

Parents can follow an evening routine checklist to reduce the risk of their children catching a cold. This includes ensuring good hand hygiene by teaching children to wash their hands regularly and properly, especially before meals and after playing outdoors or touching shared surfaces. Keeping the child’s environment clean and disinfected is also important, particularly frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and toys. Encourage healthy habits such as proper nutrition, adequate sleep, and regular exercise to strengthen their immune system. Remind children to avoid touching their eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

In the evening, parents can implement a few key habits. First, ensure that your child washes their hands before dinner to eliminate any germs picked up during the day. After dinner, help them take a warm bath or shower to relax and unwind, which can also help soothe sore muscles and open airways if they’re already feeling under the weather. Before bedtime, spend some time reading or telling stories to your child, promoting relaxation and a good night’s sleep. Finally, remind your child to blow their nose frequently and cover their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing to prevent the spread of germs.

Creating a healthy environment involves regular cleaning and disinfecting of frequently touched surfaces. Use disinfectant sprays or wipes to clean doorknobs, light switches, countertops, and toys. Wash bedding and clothes regularly, and ensure good ventilation in the home by opening windows and using fans or air conditioners. Encourage your child to play outdoors in natural environments like parks, as fresh air and sunlight can boost their immune system. Finally, teach your child about the importance of covering their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and provide them with tissues or a handkerchief to use.

A strong immune system is the best defense against colds. Ensure your child eats a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Include immune-boosting foods like citrus fruits, berries, yogurt, and garlic. Encourage physical activity and outdoor play to promote healthy blood circulation and exposure to fresh air. Establish a consistent sleep schedule, ensuring your child gets enough restful sleep each night. Finally, consider incorporating herbal remedies or supplements known for their immune-boosting properties, such as elderberry syrup, vitamin C, or zinc, but always consult with a healthcare professional first.

In addition to the above, remind your child to avoid sharing drinks, utensils, or personal items with others. Keep them hydrated by offering water or herbal tea throughout the day. During the colder months, dress your child appropriately for the weather, ensuring they stay warm and dry. If your child is already feeling unwell, encourage them to rest and provide them with plenty of fluids to aid in recovery. Finally, stay up-to-date with your child’s vaccinations and regular health check-ups to ensure their overall well-being.