11 ways to calm a sick child

Soothing a sick child is challenging for both the child and the parent. A child’s sickness brings a lot of pressure and instability in maintaining the daily family schedule. The situation becomes miserable when you are a new parent or your child is too young to convey the feeling. Here are 11 ways that can help calm a sick child.

1. Peaceful environment– Try to create a peaceful environment for the child. Ensure the noise level is low and the lights are not too harsh on the eyes. Set a comfortable temperature for your young one to rest.
2. Make the child comfortable – The time of illness is unbearable for both the child and the parent. The little one needs to be at ease. Hold their hand, give them a hug, a gentle massage, a warm compress, or a nasal drop, and make them comfortable.
3. Distract – A child can be easily distracted. The more a child feels sick, the more will be their restlessness. Distract the child with the activities they love to do, it can be playing their favorite game, watching their favorite show, cartoons, etc. Let them enjoy their favorites.
4. Follow a daily routine – Following a daily routine helps them think as if nothing has happened. It gives them stability and comfort. Try to maintain their meal times, sleep cycles, daily activities, and meal time.
5. Talk– No matter whether an infant reciprocates or not. Talk with them. Your voice will foster their recovery. The parent’s voice soothes the child and makes them feel secure and comfortable.
6. Hydration– Make sure that the child is well hydrated. Hydration is the key to speedy recovery as it helps in the removal of toxins. If you are breastfeeding offer breastmilk more often.
7. Be patient – A child feels frustrated when ill. They become cranky, please adjust to the situation. The room might be messier than before but do not yell. It is the time only to give your love and affection. If you are playing any game with them, finish it quickly.
8. Cook healthy food– Provide healthy food to the child. Healthy and easily digestible food is good for appetite. It also provides nourishment and supports the body’s healing process.
9. Don’t force feed– A child might have reduced appetite during illness. Force-feeding the child will make them feel irritated, induce vomiting, etc. It can take away more of your child’s energy instead of giving them. Serve them in small portions at regular intervals.
10. Hygiene– Ensure hygiene everywhere, when the body is weak, it is more likely to be attacked by germs. Sanitizing the playroom, keeping the bed clean, and changing the hankies and the nappies frequently will do the needful. Wash the teethers and the pacifiers after every use.
11. Seek a doctor – Always consult a doctor before giving any medication. Seeking professional help is always better than unprofessional advice.

Being a mom myself, I know it is a difficult time for you. Don’t hold any guilt. I hope this post helps you. Keep calm, and please take good care of yourself and the child. We often neglect ourselves in child care, and most likely we fall ill when the child gets well. Have patience, all bodies are prone to infections, and one such has happened with your child. Your child’s body is fighting. Give them love and strength to fight the germs, and they will get well soon. To calm a sick child is not very difficult when you follow your instinct. Happy Parenting.