Categories » ‘Feeding & Eating’
November 28th, 2009 by Editor
Ear infection in children –causes, symptoms and treatment
An ear infection is an infection of the middle ear located behind the ear drum and is usually associated with a virus. Also referred to as Otitis Media ear infections are not a contagious illness. This infection is a common illness experienced in childhood as the Eustachian tube situated in the middle ear is shorter and narrower than an adult. Most ear infections tend to resolve within a few days without any treatment. Although an ear infection is not a severe illness it does pose discomfort to your child.
Symptoms of childhood ear infection:
*Due to the accumulation of fluid developing in the middle ear your child usually experiences pain, ear ache and difficulty in hearing.
*Your child may experience a fever due to the infection of the virus.
*Fevers may develop in the body as a response to the infection
*Children may tug or interfere with the ear as an indication of an ear ache
*Due to the pain commonly experienced during an ear infection your child may have trouble sleeping resulting in irritability or crying more than usual
*An upper respiratory infection can also develop
Causes of ear infections in children:
Ear infections are commonly caused by a viral illness such as the cold. The immune system in children is not completely developed resulting in frequent viral illness and an increased occurrence of ear infections. Inflammation of the ear lining occurs resulting in fluid build-up. This blockage causes fever and pain. Recurrent ear infections can result in short-term or long term hearing loss due to fluid build-up in the ear. The pressure of the fluid build-up can damage the ear drum by causing it to erupt. Blood and pus usually oozes out of the ear releasing the pressure and pain experienced. The ear drum can usually repair and reverse the damage caused by the infection. Children at a crèche or other learning institutes are at a greater risk in developing ear infections as the virus tend to spread between children. Bottle fed babies are prone to developing ear infections due to lying position during a feeding. Children with allergies that are triggered during the spring seasons are more susceptible in experiencing ear infections.
Preventing the occurrence of ear infections:
*The use of allergy medication can decrease the occurrence of an ear infection
*Breast feeding may be a better option to bottle feeding as the antibodies in breast milk increases the child’s immunity providing protection against illness and infections.
*If a child is bottle fed avoid propping the bottle in the baby’s mouth when lying down,
*Children should avoid contact with other children experiencing viral infections
*Avoid exposure to irritants that can trigger an allergy attack which can lead to illnesses. Use allergy medication to reduce the occurrence of an attack
*Immunisation can help prevent and reduce the occurrence of ear infections
*Do not share food or eating utensils with individuals experiencing colds or any other illness.
Treatment of childhood ear infection
*If fluid build-up does not clear within 72 hours antibiotics are usually prescribed. *Fluid can be drained relieving pressure against the ear drum.
*Ear drops and pain medication helps to relieve and numb the pain commonly experienced
November 18th, 2009 by Editor
The process of wean baby completely off breast milk can take up to a period of approximately 2 weeks. Individual circumstances and needs will determine the exact time period taken to wean baby off breast milk. Weaning baby is part of the natural breast feeding experience. It is much easier to wean baby during the infancy years than toddler years. The quality of breast milk reduces as the baby grows resulting in the decrease in nutritional value of the milk. The benefit of breast feeding decreases resulting in the breast becoming more of a pacifier or a soother rather than a food source.
Guidelines on wean baby off breast milk
*Considering the baby’s age and the reason for wean baby off breast milk, you as a parent need to decide the time period to under take this task. Once the decision is made it is important to adhere to it both mentally and emotionally
*Plan a healthy meal menu that is balanced and incorporates as many vitamins, minerals, proteins and carbohydrates. This will increase the food intake of your child and reduce the quantity of breast milk consumption.
*To encourage the consumption of solid meals try to eat with your child and make mouthing sounds such as yummy or ‘hmmm’. This will entice your child psychologically to eat the variety of food presented to him/her.
*It is essential to stick to your decision although at times it may prove difficult. This would prevent you and your child from reverting back to breast feeds.
*At the age of 2 your toddler is able to comprehend and verbally communicate adequately. You can use this communication skill to your advantage by explaining to your child that he/she is big and is ready to do big kids stuff, and breast milk is best left for little babies. It is important to also stress that you are not taking the breast away but merely making space for much tastier and yummy big kid’s food. This prevents the child developing psychological and emotional issues such as abandonment and separation anxiety
*Your child should consume a meal every 2 hours as he/she needs energy to maintain his/her active lifestyle. Snacking on in- between meals such as fruit, juice, yoghurt or nuts will also help to maintain energy levels.
*Reduce breast feeding gradually by replacing each feed with a solid meal. Do not stop all together. Start to reduce day time feeds first and gradually reduce night feeds.
*Before bedtime ensure that your child has consumed a good meal as a child with a full tummy will have a good night sleep with fewer awakenings during the night.
*During night awakenings you can offer warm milk, Milo, or Nes-quick instead of breast milk. This will allow your child to relax and remain content with her/his night time feed. It is essential to offer water after the milk beverage as to avoid the development of cavities in the long term that can occur with milk residue in the mouth. Milk beverages and water can be offered in a feeding cup as your child finds the sucking action soothing and comforting.
November 11th, 2009 by Editor
Dehydration in children- symptoms and treatment
Dehydration is a condition that occurs when loss of fluid in the body is greater than fluid intake. This can often interfere with the proper functioning of the body. Dehydration usually occurs in cases such as vomiting, extreme sweating, exercise, fever, diarrhoea and inadequate intake of fluids.
Symptoms of dehydration:
*Children often become sleepy or tired due to a decrease in energy levels.
*The passing of urine may be less frequent. The urine may resemble the colour of dark yellow to amber. In infants less than 6 diapers indicates dehydration.
*Children may have a dry, sticky mouth due to thirst
*A moderate bout of diarrhoea can have an onset of dehydration
*Little or no tears when crying and a lack of sweating are also indications of dehydration
*Muscle weakness, headaches, dizziness are also some of the symptoms your child may experience.
*If your child has vomited for more than 8 hours and is unable to keep down fluids, he or she can eventually become dehydrated.
*In severe cases of dehydration your child can experience irritability accompanied by fussing and a lack of sleep. Blood pressure can increase leading to a rapid heart beat, fever, delirium, and unconsciousness.
*The skin and mouth may appear dry.
*Dryness of the nasal passages can occur.
Treatment of dehydration in children
*The common and most effective method is using oral rehydration solution in children and infants who have suffered from bouts of vomiting, fever and diarrhoea.
* An oral rehydrate solution contains ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon bicarbonate soda, 3 tablespoon sugar and 1litre of water. The water and salt content helps to replenish fluids lost as well as balance the electrolytes in the body. The water used in the rehydrate solution should be purified water or it should be boiled and cooled.
*The measurement of the ingredients used in the rehydrate should be accurate to prevent the condition from worsening.
*Consumption of fluids is most effective if kept at room temperature.
*The ingestion of fluid should be at a slow pace until the appearance of the urine is clear in colour or your child is able to keep down fluids without vomiting or passing it out through diarrhoea.
*If your child is unable to keep fluids, wait for an interval of 30- 40 minutes and try again.
*Breastfed babies should continue with regular feeds with the addition of oral rehydration fluids.
*If bottle fed babies suffer with diarrhoea and become dehydrated, the formula should be change for a lactose free formula.
*Your child should avoid consuming spicy or salty foods, milk, fruit juice or cool drink. Consuming plain water should also be avoided as it has no electrolytes.
*In severe forms dehydration hospitalisation may be required. The condition is treated with fluids transmitted intravenously providing the body with water and essential nutrients much quicker than oral rehydration.
November 8th, 2009 by Editor
Cholesterol is essential for the proper functioning of nerves and the manufacture of important hormones in the body. This white waxy substance that has no smell or taste is made either by the liver or is part of the daily dietary intake of food. Cholesterol commonly found in foods such as meat, fish, poultry, eggs, whole milk products and seafood is the common cause in the development of artery clogging plaques on the inner walls resulting in the artery hardening and blockages developing. This hinders the flow of blood entering the heart resulting in a heart attack and stroke.
Cholesterol regulates itself throughout the body in 3 different forms. These include:
*LDL-Low density lipoprotein which is manufactured by the liver and contributes to the fatting deposits around the artery walls resulting in the clogging of the artery.
*Triglycerides- which are unsaturated fat that is not entirely broken down by the liver
*HDL-High density lipoprotein is made in the liver and responses to exercise, certain foods and can often reverse the damage done by LDL.
An important factor to consider in the manufacture of cholesterol in your child’s diet is to identify the 3 different types of fats that affect the blood cholesterol level:
*Saturated fat causes a raise in blood cholesterol levels resulting in weight gain due to the high amount of kilojoules and the increase risk of heart disease. This type of fat commonly found in animal sources (meat, cheese, butter) remains solid in room temperature. Saturated fat is difficult to digest and store in the body.
*Polyunsaturated fat is similar to the effects of saturated fat except the kilojoules consumed are nutritious as they provide essential fatty acids (EFA). This fat is commonly found in vegetable oils, oily fish nuts and seeds. EFA provides the body with protection against heart disease, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and eczema. These fats are essential for the development of the baby in the uterus.
*Trans-fats are the by-product of the hydrogenation process used to manufacture vegetable oils. The hydrogenated process can cause damage to the body cells.
*Monounsaturated fats are beneficial to health of the body as it is a rich in fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K. It also contains antioxidants that can prevent cancer, arthritis and heart disease.
How to limit the intake of cholesterol in your child’s diet:
*Encourage your child to eat less fat especially foods that contain saturated fats
*If your child is over weight, limit the intake of food that is high in fats and modify your child’s diet to include healthier food options. Encourage your child to get involved in physical activities to promote weight loss.
*The healthy foods consumed should include fibre rich foods such as fresh fruit and vegetables, whole wheat bread, rice and pasta.
*Limit the intake of fat by trimming the visible fat of meats, the rind of soft cheese and the thick spreading of butter. Reserve the intake of biscuits and cakes for treats rather than daily snacking.
October 27th, 2009 by Editor
Acute diarrhoea in children is a common condition lasting for approximately 1-2 days. Diarrhoea is usually characterised by the excessive evacuation of watery stools. This condition is often caused by bacterial, viral or parasitic infection. Diarrhoea is dangerous in newborns and infants due to the dehydration often experienced as a result of fluid loss. Infants aged between 6-32 weeks suffering with diarrhoea cannot be vaccinated with the virus called Rotateq as it can worsen the episodes of diarrhoea. If your child experiences diarrhoea for more than 3 days it is considered dangerous and medical help should be advised.
What are common symptoms experienced during diarrhoea?
*Cramping of the stomach
*Pain is usually experienced in the abdominal area
*A lost in appetite
*A constant urgency to pass stools
*Fever may be experienced due to the onset of dehydration
*The passing of loose watery stools during short intervals
*Nausea can often be experienced
*Bloating can occur due to gas build up
What are the causes of acute diarrhoea in children?
*Food or water that is contaminated with bacteria can result in an infection leading to diarrhoea. The different types of bacteria include salmonella, shigella, E.coli, camplyobacteria.
*Rotavirus, Norwalk virus, Herpes simplex and viral Hepatitis are a few viral infections that contribute to diarrhoea.
*Certain parasites that enter the body through the digestion of food or water settle in the digestive system and colon resulting in diarrhoea.
*Children who suffer with food intolerance usually experience diarrhoea due to artificial sweeteners, colourant, lactose ingredients and certain prservatives.
*The side effects of certain medication due to overuse or long term use can lead to diarrhoea. These medications that are commonly related to diarrhoea include antibiotics, blood pressure tablets, cancer medication and antacid containing magnesium
* Intestinal diseases such as Crohn’s disease, colitis, inflammatory bowel disorder and irritable bowel syndrome often results in diarrhoea.
*Trips to foreign countries can lead to diarrhoea developing due to the risk of food and water contamination by bacteria, parasite or a virus.
Treatment and management for diarrhoea
*Due to the onset of dehydration, fluids and electrolyse must be replaced
*Stop using medication that is causing an aggravation in the occurrence of diarrhoea
*Avoid the consumption of caffeinated beverages, greasy foods, milk products, foods high in fibre and foods that can result in the aggravation of diarrhoea
*As the diarrhoea begins to subside, your child can consume foods such as toast, rice, crackers, steamed carrots or potato, banana.
*During travelling avoid drinking water from taps rather opt for bottle water where you can break the seal. Avoid eating fresh fruits and vegetables, meats shellfish and food from the local vendors
*Seek medical attention if:
-diarrhoea persists for more than 3 days
-severe pain in the abdomen or rectum
- High fever
-The passing of black stools or pus in the stools
*Medication should be prescribed by a qualified medical doctor as the dosage of medication differs from adults to children. The wrong dosage of medication can aggravate the condition of diarrhoea.
October 20th, 2009 by Editor
Iron deficiency anaemia in children
Iron deficiency anaemia is a condition affecting many children due to the inadequate intake of iron in the diet. This condition indicates an insufficient supply of oxygen to the body tissues and organs resulting in the decrease production of red blood cells. Iron deficient anaemia results when a disruption occurs between the production of the red blood cells in the bone marrow and spleen due to the inadequate intake of iron or through loss of blood due to injury or the early onset of the menstrual cycle.
What are the symptoms of iron deficiency anaemia?
In healthy children anaemia can present itself with symptoms such as:
*Tiredness
*Dizziness
*Shortness of breath
*Poor memory
*Frequent bouts of colds and flu
*A pale shade skin colour
*Frequent infections
In severe anaemia the following symptoms are commonly experienced:
*Heart palpitations
*Angina
*Headaches
*Leg pains
Children suffering with long term anaemia can suffer with:
*Burning sensation of the tongue
*Dryness of the mouth
*Throat sores
*Dry brittle nails and hair
*Pica (A condition where the individual suffers with insatiable cravings such as sand, ice cubes and many other unusual things)
The causes of iron deficiency anaemia in children
*A decrease in dietary iron is common in vegans and vegetarians as the main source of iron is mostly found in red meat.
*Premature babies can develop iron deficient anaemia as the storing capability of iron is not completed until the end stage of pregnancy
*Loss of blood as a result of injury or the early onset of the menstrual cycle in young female children can often deplete the body of its iron stores
*Diseases such as crohns disease or gluten intolerance can cause a disruption in the body’s ability to store iron.
Treatment for iron deficient anaemia in children:
*The prescription of the daily intake of iron tablets will help to increase iron stores in the body whilst reversing the condition of anaemia. Iron tablets are to be taken after consumption of food to prevent an irritation in the stomach lining. The stools passed are often black in colour due to the ingestion of iron tablets. Diarrhoea or constipation can often result with the intake of iron supplements.
*Anaemia can also be resolved through dietary intake of iron. The sources of iron in food include liver (not to be consumed during pregnancy), egg yolks, lean meat, lentils, dried or tinned beans, pumpkin and sunflower seeds, dark green and leafy vegetables, seaweed, oatmeal, prunes, fortified breakfast, broccoli, asparagus, wholemeal bread, dried fruits, soya products and brown rice.
October 10th, 2009 by Editor
Constipation can often be defined when less than 3 stools are passed per week. This is due to a difficult, sluggish or less frequent bowel movement. During digestion as food moves through the colon it absorbs water to form stools. The contraction of muscles in the colon pushes the stools towards the rectum. As the stools reach the rectum it bulks up with the absorption of water, to form a solid mass. Constipation occurs when the stool becomes hard and dry because of a decrease in water absorption preventing the passing of stools out of the body.
The common symptoms of constipation are:
*Straining during bowel movements which can often lead to the development of haemorrhoids.
*The passing of hard and dry stools due to the inadequate intake of water
*Bowel movements that occur less then 2 times a week often indicates constipation
*A swollen or bloated abdominal area that appears hard
*Pain experienced on the abdominal region
Causes of constipation are commonly due to the following factors:
*Inadequate intake of water
*An interruption of regular bowel movement due travel, change in diet e.t.c
*A poor diet with a decrease intake of fibre contributes to sluggish bowel movements.
*The consumption of large amount of dairy
*Resisting the urge of bowel movement results in constipation and a possible development of haemorrhoids.
*The decrease in physical activities also contributes to constipation
*The overuse of laxatives weakens the colon muscles reducing bowel movement
*Conditions such as hypothyroidism, depression, eating disorders, T.B, colon cancer increase the risk of constipation.
*Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy and menstrual cycle have an increase in progesterone and oestrogen levels resulting in the reduction of bowel movement
*Medication such as calcium, contraceptive pill, antidepressants and iron play a role in constipation
Treatment of constipation:
*A well balanced diet with an increase in fibre intake helps in the management of constipation. Fibre is found in vegetables, legumes, wholegrain breads and cereals.
*Consume at least 6-8 glasses of water daily to prevent dehydration which can lead to constipation
*Avoid the intake of caffeinated drinks as their dehydrating effects can often lead to constipation.
*The consumption of warm liquids in the morning has a soothing and comforting effect on the tummy. This helps in the preparation of bowel movement
*The use of a mild laxative can help with a more frequent bowel emptying. Laxatives should not be used for more than 2weeks as the overuse of laxatives can worsen and aggravate the condition.
The role of fibre in the management of constipation:
*Fibre is a material made by plants which is not easily digested by the gastro intestinal tract.
*Fibre should be introduced in small quantities and increased every 1-2 weeks until the desired effect is achieved.
*The combination of fibre and water allows the stools to be easily passed through the colon as fibre adds bulk to the stools and the water softens the stools.
*The common side effect of fibre is the pass of gas as the bacteria found in the colon produces gas during the digestion of fibre
September 27th, 2009 by Editor
The wide variety of milk formulas and information on bottle feeding ensures that your baby will be well fed. Milk formulas are available in many varieties from hypo-allergenic, lactose-free, cow’s milk protein-free, anti-reflux, soya bean protein feeds and many more.
Cleaning and sterilizing feeding bottles:
It is important to sterilize your baby’s bottle after each feed to prevent a built- up of bacteria from the milk of the previous feed. Rinse and then wash the bottle and teat separately using a brush to remove milk residue. The teat should be turned inside out and rinsed again to ensure the hole of the teat is not blocked. The bottle should be sterilized using one of the following methods:
*Boiling: boil the bottle and teat for 10 minutes
*Steam sterilizer: This method uses an electric sterilizer that produces steam to sterilize the feeding equipment. It takes approximately 10 minutes
*Sterilizing fluid and tablets: The feeding bottle and teat are placed in water containing sterilizing fluid or tablets for 30 minutes.
Preparation of a bottle feed
*Use cooled boiled water and the measured amount of formula into a sterilized feeding bottle. It is important to follow the manufacture’s instructions to give your baby optimum nutrition.
*Fasten the teat and place the lid on the mouth of the bottle. Shake thoroughly until the powder has completely dissolved.
*Bottles can be made up in batches and kept at the back of the fridge until needed. *Bottle feeds that are not used within 24 hours should be discarded.
*Babies under 1 year should not be fed with cow’s milk as it contains too little iron and vitamins. Cow’s milk is difficult to digest as it is high in protein and sodium
Feeding techniques:
*Baby’s milk needs to be warmed if it was kept in the fridge. The temperature of the milk should not be too hot as the baby’s mouth is sensitive to high temperatures. It is best to keep the milk at room temperature.
*To check the temperature of the milk test a few drops at the back of your wrist
*Tilt your baby in your arms to prevent gagging of the milk.
*Ensure the bottle is tilted so that milk covers the teat and baby does not draw in air.
*Do not leave baby unattended with the bottle propped in the mouth as this could cause him/her to choke. This also causes the teeth to decay and form cavities.
*Do not force your baby to finish her feed when she/he has had enough.
*Allow a maximum of 40 minutes per feed. The baby may need a break half-way through for a minute or two to catch his/her breathe before starting again.
*If you are able to hear the baby gulping the milk it is likely the baby is drinking to fast. This will result in discomfort and tummy cramps caused by wind. Adjust the flow of milk by selecting a smaller teat or adjust the angle of the bottle.
*After each feed your baby needs to be wind. The baby should be placed over your shoulder or on your lap and gently tapped on the back to release swallowed air.
How many feeds should a baby have?
The baby should be offered a feed whenever she/he seems hungry. Formula feed babies stay fuller for a longer period of time then breastfed babies. Bottle fed babies need a feed approximately every 3-4 hours.
September 24th, 2009 by Editor
Hygiene: Good personal hygiene is essential to stop germs from harming your child. Encourage your child to wash his/her hands regularly as this is the easiest way to prevent the spread of illnesses such as colds and flu’s. Children need to wash their hands before meals, after using the toilet, playing outside or touching animals. This helps the body to defend itself against germs. To prevent the build up of germs and bacteria encourage your child to bath twice a day. Children need to have their nails kept short to prevent the build up of germs under the nails.
Dental care: It is important to brush your child’s teeth twice a day using a fluoride tooth paste. A daily flossing regime is also essential to remove plaque and food residue between the teeth. A balanced diet is important for oral health and should include vitamins, minerals, calcium, phosphorus and fluoride to help protect the teeth from tooth decay. When food particles remain in the mouth, bacteria starts to feed on it creating an acid that eats away at the tooth enamel. Encourage your child to brush his/her teeth especially after consuming sweets. Regular check-ups at the dentist is essential to maintain healthy teeth.
Diet: A diet that contains sufficient amounts of vitamin and minerals to sustain a child is important to boost the immune system and develop a healthy body. Children require more fat in their diet than adults as it provides energy for their rapid growth. The cholesterol contained in foods such as full cream milk is essential for brain development. During snack time including foods such as a peanut butter sandwich with a glass of milk or grated cheese on a muffin helps to meet your child’s daily fat intake. Restrict the intake of fat if your child is overweight. Protein should be included in every meal to provide amino acids essential for your child’s growth. It is also the building block for muscle development. Your child’s diet should comprise of a variety of different foods from the food pyramid. Kid’s need to eat frequently during the day as their meal portion size is small.
Exercise: Exercise is important in keeping the body healthy and fit to sustain a good immune system. Physical activity and a balanced diet will prevent and decrease the risk of heart diseases, cholesterol, diabetes and lower blood pressure whilst increasing a healthy immune system. Sport activities will help to boost your child’s confidence level and develop a positive attitude. An increase in energy levels allows the body to function efficiently.
Sleep: Sleep is as essential for development as a healthy diet and exercise. Insufficient sleep causes;
*Changes in behaviour
*A decrease in attention span
*Increase aggression
*A decrease in tolerance
*mood swings
*An increase in tantrums
September 17th, 2009 by Editor
The common cold is caused by many forms of viruses that are a challenge to fight with one type of treatment as each virus differs in its structure. The flu is a contagious disease that is spread through coughing and sneezing and lasts for about 4 weeks. The cold affects the head area and last for 4 days to a week. The cold and flu boost your child’s immune system making her less susceptible to colds and infections as she gets older. Colds are not a serious ailment but if not taken care of it can develop into a secondary infection.
Symptoms:
*A blocked or running nose
*sore throat
*coughing
*aches and pains
*fevers reaching 38’c
*Headaches
Treatment:
There are no treatments to cure the cold or flu but there are remedies to alleviate the symptom while the cold and flu takes its course.
*Your child needs to have plenty of rest to allow the body to recuperate
*Paracetamol tablets or syrup is usually prescribed by a doctor to help control the fever
*Antibiotics will not aid with the flu or cold as it is designed to fight bacteria
*To relieve a postnasal drip elevate the head of the mattress with a towel
*Use an air humidifier to add moisture to the air and reduce nasal congestion making breathing easy.
*A blocked nose can also be alleviated by running hot water in the bathroom to create steam. When your child inhales the steam it will help unblock her nose
*A saline nasal spray can also be used to aid a blocked nose
*Soups are ideal as they provide fluid and eases nasal congestion
*Your child needs to have plenty to fluids to prevent dehydration
*Although your child does not have an appetite because of her symptoms, her appetite will return after a few days
*Increase your child’s immunity with fresh strawberries, papaya, apricots and guava as it boosts the number of infection fighting white blood cells
The flu vaccine:
*The flu vaccine is administrated yearly and consists of the common strains of the virus
*Once immunised the body’s immune system fights against the virus. The information of the shape of the virus is stored so when the body is invaded with the flu it is able to fight against it
Precautions with medication:
*Ensure that the medication that administrated to your child is suitable for her age
*Do not over dose the child to alleviate the symptoms. Always be advised by a pharmacist on the safety and dosage of medication
*You will need to call a doctor if -your child’s symptom has not cleared up
-Her temperature is not dropping
-Your child is producing a yellow or green mucus as this is an indication of an infection
*Do not get a flu vaccine if you are pregnant or just recovering from the flu
*Your child can be vaccinated and the dosage of the injection will be calculated according to her weight
Prevention:
*During the winter months when the colds and flu are common ailments increase your intake of vitamin c
*Keep the body fit with a healthy diet and physical activity
*Wash your child’s hand to prevent infections from spreading
*Limit exposure time with your child and individuals with the cold
*Change your child’s bed linen frequently
*Coughs and sneezes should be covered
*Discourage kissing between your child and ill family members to prevent a cross infection
*Do not allow the sharing of toothbrushes or eating utensils with an ill individual
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