Hey Moms! Cold and flu season is back, and if you’re like me with three little ones running around, you know how easily germs can spread through the house. With kids 5 and under, it sometimes feels like you're always one runny nose away from a full-blown family sick day. So, here are some tried-and-true tips that have worked in my house to help us navigate cold and flu season a little more smoothly.
1. Understand the Basics
I’m all about knowing what we’re dealing with before the germs hit. The flu and a cold are both respiratory illnesses, but they’re caused by different viruses. I always think of the flu as the “big bad wolf”—fever, body aches, total exhaustion—and the cold as more of a “runny nose annoyance.” Either way, both can disrupt the whole household, so it's good to know the difference.
2. Emphasize Hand Washing
We all know hand washing is key, but getting kids to actually wash their hands long enough? That’s a whole other battle! I’ve found that singing "Happy Birthday" twice (or whatever song they love) makes it fun and ensures they scrub for those important 20 seconds. Bonus tip: let them pick out fun-smelling soap. My kids love it!
3. Keep Hand Sanitizer Handy
When we’re out and about and soap isn’t around, I always have hand sanitizer ready. I stash small bottles in my purse, the car, and even their backpacks. I’ve trained my kids to use it liberally—covering every part of their hands—especially after sneezing or touching those sticky grocery store carts.
4. Practice Good Hygiene Habits
I’m constantly reminding my little ones to avoid touching their faces—easier said than done, right? But the nose, mouth, and eyes are like open doors for viruses. We’ve also made a game out of “coughing into your elbow” instead of our hands, which helps keep those germs from spreading.
5. Boost Your Immune System
Mama, keeping our families healthy starts with a strong immune system. I try to make sure we’re eating lots of fruits and veggies (even if I have to hide them in smoothies), staying active, drinking water, and getting good sleep. And if your pediatrician is on board, adding a vitamin C or zinc supplement can be helpful too.
6. Prepare a Sick Day Kit
I’ve learned the hard way that it's better to be prepared than scrambling when someone starts showing symptoms at 2 AM. I keep a “sick day kit” ready with the essentials: tissues, fever reducers, a thermometer, throat lozenges, and plenty of fluids. Having it all on hand saves me from a last-minute pharmacy run.
7. Get the Flu Vaccine
This one is big. We make a family event out of getting the flu vaccine every year, complete with treats afterward. The vaccine is recommended for everyone 6 months and older, and it’s our best shot (pun intended) at keeping the flu out of the house.
8. Know When to Stay Home
I know it’s tough when school’s involved, but keeping your kiddos home when they’re sick really helps prevent germs from spreading to others. Plus, it gives them the rest they need to recover. Check with your school’s policies on illness, and don't hesitate to call the pediatrician if you’re unsure.
9. Clean and Disinfect High-Touch Areas
When someone in the house is sick, I go into full germ-busting mode. I wipe down everything—door handles, light switches, remotes, toys—anything those little hands are constantly touching. It helps stop the germs from spreading to everyone else.
10. Stay Informed
This is one I do every year: stay updated. Sometimes flu season hits harder than expected, and I keep an eye on things through our doctor and the CDC. Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to protecting our little ones.
Cold and flu season doesn’t have to mean non-stop sickness. With these tips, I hope you can keep those germs at bay and protect your household as much as possible. Stay healthy, and may the odds of an illness-free season be in your favor!
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