It is difficult to sleep when you have a dry cough or stuffy nose. This leads to restlessness and irritability, which we all know is not good for anyone, especially children. If your child has a simple cough or cold, the best way to make them feel better is to make them comfortable while fighting the virus.

According to Catherine Tom-Revzon of Children’s Hospital at Montefiore, who is the Petdiatrics Clinical Pharmacy Manager, cough suppressants make children dizzy or hyperactive. She recommends trying some natural home remedies to relieve young children’s coughs and colds.

give him honey

According to recent studies, honey is ideal for relieving coughs compared to over-the-counter medicines. It is also known to help children sleep better when they are sick. Best of all, children love honey because it is sweet and delicious. Buckwheat or any dark honey are ideal because they have more antioxidants than other varieties.

Half a teaspoon is recommended for children ages 1-5, while children ages 6-11 may enjoy a teaspoon. Do not give honey to children under 1 year of age.

Prepare a salt water gargle

If your child is old enough and knows how to spit up fluids without swallowing, gargling with salt water is a good remedy for coughs and sore throats. Salt has powerful antibacterial properties, which is why salt water has long been used as a cough remedy.

Simply mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt with warm water and have your little one gargle the mixture.

keep it hydrated

Keeping children hydrated at all times is essential, what else if they are sick? Have your child drink plenty of fluids; this soothes a sore throat and thins the mucus, making it easier to cough. If they prefer something flavored, offer warm or cold juice or decaf tea with honey for older children.

Serve chicken noodle soup

Ever wonder why your mom always made chicken noodle soup every time you were sick? It’s because the warm soup helps loosen the mucus in your nasal passages, acting like a vaporizer. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, making it an effective remedy for coughs and colds.

Support your little one when he sleeps

Your child will be able to breathe better and sleep better if he sleeps in an elevated position. This allows the airways to open up, draining the mucus. Add an extra pillow under your toddler’s head at night to do just that.

Don’t worry, your little one will be better before you know it. Just follow these simple yet effective natural remedies for toddler coughs and colds.