When seasons change, the change in the temperature, humidity and other external factors demand that our bodies quickly adapt to this change. Children are more susceptible to falling ill during these transitions as their body tries to respond to the change. Respiratory infections, viral and bacterial, allergic bronchitis and asthma, skin allergies and fungal infections, and viral etc. are common when seasons change. Here’s a quick look at what you should and should not do for your child during this period to boost their immunity and keep them safe.
– Breastfeed : Breastmilk is known to boost immunity of children. Try to breastfeed your baby for at least one year to get immunity from infections and allergies.
– Diet: Fruits and vegetables contain plenty of vitamins and anti-oxidants which are essential for immunity. Feed your child plenty of fruits, green vegetables, different colored vegetables, and a balanced high protein diet. Do the same yourself if your baby is breastfeeding.
– Go out: Fresh air and sunshine are highly essential for everyone, especially children. Go out and let them enjoy.
-Outdoor games: Let your child have some outdoor activities. Play some age appropriate games in the open. This will help him get some exercise as well as learn from nature.
-Not too hot, not too cold: Do not keep your child’s room too hot or too cold. Maintain a comfortable temperature.
-Heaters instead of blowers: Blowers may cause dehydration. Try using heaters instead and give it a break in between.
–Warm Water water: It’s important to bathe young babies and children in a warm atmosphere and preferably around noon when it gets warmer. The water for the bath should neither be too hot, nor too cold. Very hot water can dehydrate the skin and very cold water can give a chill.
-Do not panic and over medicate: Viral respiratory infections are common from October, through winter and early spring occur frequently and need no antibiotics; only supportive therapy is generally sufficient.
–Vaccinate: All vaccinations should be up to date, to prevent vaccine-preventable viral and bacterial infections occurring with the change of season or winters.,
– Take care of clothingWear: warm clothes in layers and no woollen clothes should be in direct contact with skin to prevent allergies. Do not have too many clothes on the child, as over clothing with woollens offers no protection against colds or respiratory infections.
–Ventilation: Air the babies periodically during the day to provide ventilation and airing. A stuffed, totally covered, and bundled child will land up with skin and fungal infections. Clothing should be comfortable and easy to wear.
So, enjoy the changing seasons, without fear of falling sick!