Avoiding coughs and colds

It might seem that kids and runny noses go together, and given that their immune systems are still developing, that just might be true. Find out more below about precautions you can take to prevent coughs and colds.

New people mean new germs, so as your toddler ventures out to nursery or playgroup, it’s common for them to pick up bugs. Whilst the occasional cough or cold is necessary for your toddler’s immune system to develop, it’s certainly no fun for your poorly toddler, or you.

From cleaning toys to simply washing hands more often, this article looks at the little things you can do to minimise your toddler’s exposure to too many germs.

Once your toddler is old enough to play outside, make new friends and go to nursery or toddler group, it’s likely that they’ll catch a cold or infection once in a while. Because your toddler’s immune system only learns to fight bugs by first being exposed to them, exposure to these new germs can be beneficial as it helps your toddler to develop immunity from them in the future.

However, being under the weather is no fun for either of you, so it’s understandable that you want to take precautions to avoid your baby catching too many bugs.

Tips to keep germs at bay

Toddler groups and nurseries should make sure that your toddler is playing in a clean environment, but there are some things you can do to limit their exposure to germs both in the home and when you’re out and about.

• Wash your hands regularly, and make sure visitors wash theirs
• Remove shoes when you come in through the front door – your exploring toddler is less likely to find anything that’s been brought in from outside
• Make sure toys are wiped clean if another child plays with them
• Regularly disinfect toys
• Don’t let toddlers share food
• Carry antiseptic or alcohol wipes with you to wipe down high chairs, the handles on supermarket trolleys and rides before putting your toddler in them.

Nutrients that support the immune system

Your toddler’s diet can also play a part in supporting their immune system. A balanced diet that contains a variety of nutrients such as iron and vitamins, as well as prebiotics, will give their immune system what it needs to help keep bugs at bay. Why not read more about feeding your toddler to support their immune system in our article?

If you’d like some more advice on how to keep germs at bay call our Careline team on 009647723342222 between the hours of 9am and 6pm Saturday to Thursday.