Breathe Easy: Home Remedies For Kids' Colds

There's nothing worse than nursing a sick child back to health. Most parents feeling completely helpless as their little ones cough, sneeze, vomit and wheeze. That's when it's time to call in the cavalry - and by cavalry we mean those home remedies that many moms swear by. Although these home remedies may not cure the ailment, they will help with the symptoms. Perhaps one of the most popular is a little chicken soup for the soul. Serve your baby a bowl of the good stuff. Although it's never been proven, it will make your child feel better. For those head colds, invest in a neti pot, which is used to clean out your child's sinuses. If a neti pot seems like too much, use saline nasal drops or sprays to help clear up congestion. Give your child a steam bath or shower. Run hot water for 10 to 15 minutes with the door closed until the room is steamed.


Do this up to four times a day to help loosen the tightness in the chest. Check with your doctor to find out what role a humidifier will play in helping your child get better. Cut back on the dairy products - dairy produces supposedly produces thicker mucus, although some medical experts dispute this as a myth. If fever is the issue, give your child a cool bath to get the temperature down. Keep a cool compress on the forehead or the back of the neck. Make sure it isn't too cold. Always keep your child hydrated. Make sure he's drinking water and diluted juice throughout the day. Keep your child's head elevated to encourage drainage. Of course, you always want to consult your pediatrician with any questions.