Here’s what to have on hand to help keep your family healthy, well, and comfortable when sickness bugs are starting to be a bother.
As winter settles in, you’re probably bracing for the onslaught of seasonal illnesses. Flus, colds, respiratory infections, coughs, fevers, and whatever else is making the rounds in your child’s classroom… It feels like just a matter of time before you’re all under the weather. But the old saying that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure has its place when it comes to winter wellness. Consider putting together a family winter wellness kit so you’re prepared for whatever comes your way, healthwise. Here are 10 things to include in your kit so you’re ready when the ills and chills turn up.
FACIAL TISSUES
A staple for the season, soft tissues are essential for keeping runny noses and sneezes at bay. Opt for gentle, hypoallergenic options to prevent skin irritation, particularly for those with sensitive skin.
PAIN RELIEF
Paracetamol and ibuprofen are indispensable for alleviating fevers, aches, and pains that often accompany winter ailments such as colds and flu. Ensure you have both adult and child-friendly versions to cater to the needs of every family member.
THROAT SOOTHERS
Soothing sore throats is a priority during winter. Keep a supply of cough drops, lozenges, soothing lollipops (the throat-soothing kind, not the lolly kind!), and throat spray on hand, including varieties suitable for children. Always check dosage information as these should not be eaten like lollies, but spread throughout the day for maximum effectiveness.
IMMUNE-BOOSTING SUPPLEMENTS
Enhancing the immune system is paramount for staying healthy amid winter’s challenges. Consider adding supplements such as vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc, and echinacea to your kit to bolster your family’s defenses against seasonal bugs. Ensure you have child-friendly versions of these and that you’re using the correct dosages.
WARM ESSENTIALS
Combat winter chills with wheat bags or hot water bottles, which you can warm up and pop under the sheets to pre-heat your child’s bed. Never leave a hot water bottle or wheat bag in bed with your child, and check to ensure the wheat bag isn’t leaking its contents, or the hot water bottle is still patent/lid tightly seals – these can be a burn hazard for children so it’s essential parents use these correctly and carefully.
AROMATHERAPY
Create a calming atmosphere and alleviate congestion with eucalyptus, peppermint, and lavender essential oils and a diffuser, or a lavender sachet your child can tuck under their pillow, to promote relaxation.
DIGESTIVE HEALTH AIDS
For sore tummies, ginger tea or peppermint drops might help alleviate symptoms of nausea or indigestion.
RESPIRATORY SUPPORT
Combat respiratory issues with saline nasal sprays or steam inhalers if your child is old enough to use them. These can help alleviate congestion and soothe irritated nasal passages.
TRAVEL RELIEF
Have travel sickness remedies on hand for winter road trips or visits to friends and relatives during the school hols.
HYGIENE ITEMS
It’s good to have face masks, disposable gloves, hand sanitiser, rubbish bags, and sanitising spray on hand for quick clean-ups if your little one is sick.
