Colds in toddlers

Avoiding coughs and colds in toddlers

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 unavoidable, 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.

Avoiding coughs and colds in toddlers

Avoiding coughs and colds

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. 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.

Toddler coughs and colds

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

The importance of a balanced diet for your toddler

A balanced diet that contains a variety of nutrients, including vitamins and minerals, will help to keep the body healthy and ready to fight any infections. Why not read more about feeding your toddler a balanced diet in our article.

If you'd like some more advice on how to keep germs at bay call our team of experts anytime on 0800 996 1000. Or try our confidential online online messaging service Live ChatMonday to Friday 8am to 8pm.

4 comments

harvadyaleabc said...

My baby Clarice caught a cold when she was 4 months at my sisters house with Heather, her baby.

19 August 2010 20:01
harvadyaleabc said...

My baby Clarice caught a cold when she was 4 months at my sisters house with Heather, her baby.

19 August 2010 20:01
sar4 said...

sophie caught bronchiolitis when she was 11 weeks old, she ended up in hospital for 3 days on oxygen' came home on 23rd december just in time to enjoy christmas! shes fine now but doctors said she might suffer again this winter so to keep an eye on her! hopefully she'll be fine!!!

5 September 2010 21:33
julie coulson said...

I have gone through the same as you sar4 my daughter gont rushed into hospital with the same but it ended up being pnemonia she loaded again cant help but imagine the worst.

5 September 2010 22:00

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