How to Keep a Child Healthy During Cold and Flu Season

Now that cold and flu season is upon us many parents are worried about their child getting sick. While there is no way to protect your child completely from the flu or a cold there are steps you can take to help keep your little one healthy. Follow these steps to keep your kiddo safe from sickness this season.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Healthy Foods
• Water
• Soap
• Adequate Sleep
• Flu Vaccines

1. The first step in keeping kids healthy during the cold and flu season is practicing healthy everyday habits. You should provide your child with nutritious foods throughout the day. Fruits and vegetables provide essential vitamins and nutrients that help keep our bodies strong. Make sure your child is eating a healthy well balanced diet to keep their immune system strong.

2. Now that your child is eating healthy they need to also be getting adequate sleep each night. Sleep helps our body restore itself and protect us. Getting enough sleep can prevent your child from becoming run down.

3. Children are going to play and touch all kinds of things. Which means that they come in contact with tons of germs every day. So teach your child to wash their hands throughout the day with soap and water. We can't protect them from every germ but by washing hands frequently it can help prevent the spread of infection.

4. There are seasonal and H1N1 flu vaccinations available for children. These are an option for some parents. If you are interested in vaccinating your child you should talk with your family physician.