Kids jumping into a pool on a summer day.

Ten tips for planning your family’s summer with less stress!

Summer is a time for family fun, rest, and relaxation, right? Realistically though, more likely for most of us, school gets out; kids are suddenly home hungry and bored, and you are appointed the summer activities director in addition to your other jobs and responsibilities. Sometimes we find ourselves overwhelmed by summer planning and also feeling guilty for not “making the most of it.” Read on for tips on how to plan the summer as a family.

1. Let go of all of those unattainable expectations!

There is no such thing as the “perfect” summer! As if being a parent these days wasn’t stressful enough, the pressure we are under to make every aspect of our kids’ childhood perfect and memorable can be overwhelming! We’re bombarded with insta-worthy summer vacay pics, absurdly time-consuming activity ideas, and constant reminders that you only get 18 summers with your kids, so don’t mess it up! Here’s the thing, sure, that may be true, but kids don’t need much to have a wonderful and memorable summer. All they need is some time outdoors, time to play, time with friends and family, some time to relax, and that is it! Try not to get sucked into the parent guilt or stuck comparing. There is no right way to plan summer for your family and kids!

Tons of activities? Great! Lots of unstructured free play at home? Awesome! Lots of travel? Fantastic. Staying close to home? Sounds perfect! Spending days with the kids as a family? Sure! Sending them off to camps during the day so you can get work done or enjoy yourself? Do it! The bottom line with most things, especially parenting, is that comparison can be the thief of joy. Decide what works best for you and your family, and then go for it!

2. Stock up on summer supplies!

Make sure you have what you need for spontaneous summer adventures. Stock up on sunscreen, sun hats, bug spray, bike helmets, ensure the kids’ swimsuits fit, etc. If camping is on your list, check that the tent is ready to go and no pieces are missing! Things like this can make or break when the fam gets the sudden inspiration to adventure!

3. Make a summer bucket list with the kids.

This is a fun way to ensure you fit in those things you want to do without letting the summer slip by. Want to go on a family camping trip? Build a tree house? Get a few beach trips in? Make a list together, and if applicable, try to set a date for certain activities since summer has a way of flying by, and you don’t want to miss the chance. Getting the kids involved and enthusiastic about upcoming plans is also great. Ask them if they have any goals for the summer. Maybe there is a new skill they want to learn or a project they’d like to try, and you can help them get started. 

4. Plan out the summer by week.

If planning the whole summer feels daunting, pull out the calendar and plan some activities each week! Whether it’s swim lessons, camps, or family adventures, it can feel more manageable to look at each week instead of the whole summer.

5. Keep a flexible schedule.

Establish some daily routines, but allow for flexibility! You certainly don’t have to keep up the exact same timetable as during the school year. Getting a little laxer with naps, bedtimes, and morning wakeups is normal. However, kids thrive with a certain amount of consistency, so try to have at least a loose schedule. Keep up with the nap and bedtime routine, even if the timing varies. You can also establish new daily rituals for the summer if it works for your fam, like a walk after dinner or a morning park trip. 

6. Don’t fear boredom!

Everyone dreads the “I’m bored” chant all summer. Often we try to plan our family’s summer to avoid it! But the truth is boredom isn’t the enemy. Overplanning kids’ days robs them of the opportunity to direct their play and tap into their creativity. Time to relax and engage in activities of their choosing is a gift. Not only should you not feel bad about not having something planned for them every second of every day, but you’re doing them a favor!

However, they may feel otherwise at times and complain. Instead of immediately coming to their rescue with a plan as activities director, first, try giving them a nudge in the right direction. Say something like, “Being bored can be uncomfortable, but you have excellent ideas! I bet you can come up with something awesome to do! Do you feel like playing outside or inside right now?” 

7. Set aside some quick and easy pastimes for days the kids need more direction.

A stash of emergency at-home activities for rainy days or days without planned family outings can also be a great idea! Even if you do your best to prepare, something can throw you for a loop like canceled plans, rainy days, kids home with a cold, etc. Have a stockpile of easy, fun activities that only come out on days the kids are stuck at home or when the “I’m bored” complaint is on repeat. Kids can get excited about simple things when they’re novel, like coloring books or pages, fresh crayons, puzzles, craft kits, bubbles, water balloons, and playdough.

Also, check out local spots that have fun summer drop-in activities for kids. Your public library is a great place to start! And lastly, one positive aspect of the pandemic is a plethora of online resources with activity ideas for kids, online story times, kids yoga, exciting classes, dance lessons, you name it! There are tons to choose form, but some of our favorites are:

Busy Toddler

The Imagination Tree

Cosmic Kids Yoga

Eventbrite

8. Get kids outside and moving every day!

Extra screen time in the summer is expected and OK. Most of us have fond memories of leisurely summer mornings watching cartoons before heading out to play for the day. Especially if you’re working from home and the kids are around, screen time can be survival, no guilt! But when you can, take advantage of nicer weather and extra daylight and get those kids outside as much as possible! While you’re at it, get yourself out there too!

There are countless benefits to being outdoors, getting sunlight, and daily physical activity. Not only are we all happier and healthier with more exercise and outdoor time, but with any luck, the kiddos will be tired out and much less likely to drive you nuts at bedtime! Plan some regular summer family outdoor time! Active things like swimming, hiking, or biking are excellent, but keeping it simple with free time, playing in the yard, or walking around the block can also be game-changers. Just remember sun protection every day, and don’t forget to reapply!

9. If you’re short on childcare, don’t be afraid to get creative!

As wonderful as summer family time is, you need time to yourself to keep your sanity. And if you are trying to work from home, it is even more crucial. But full-time childcare is not available or accessible to everyone, which can be challenging. As you are planning summer for the family, you may find yourself cobbling things together and wishing you had more help. The good news is, you are probably not the only one in that boat, so consider reaching out to parent-friends. It can be as simple as swapping play date houses with one other family a few days a week or having a small group of parents that takes turns watching each other’s kids. This can be an excellent way for everyone to get a little “time off.”

Consider relatives or neighbors that might enjoy hanging with the kids for a few hours here and there to lighten your load. It’s tough to ask for help, but you’ll be a better, happier parent for it! In a pinch, get kids involved in things you need to do, like errands, yard work, cleaning, or cooking. It may not be as efficient as when you do them yourself, but believe it or not, if you present it the right way, kids can have fun doing almost anything, and the tasks still get done!

10. Lastly, don’t wait for the last minute for those back-to-school “to-dos.”

Back-to-school can sneak up on us, and it can be stressful to ensure everything is ready for the new year. That stress is magnified when it gets down to the wire! As part of your summer planning, consider what your family needs to get done by fall. At the start of the summer, try making a list of the back-to-school to-dos, checkups, school supplies, sports gear, and paperwork, and adding them to your calendar or setting reminders for before the school year. Better yet, check off as many boxes as early as possible!

In our pediatrics office, without fail, the end of summer rolls around, and we are slammed with frantic parents trying to schedule their kids for their last-minute sports physicals or get forms filled out in time for school! We don’t judge; we know how easy it is to forget until the last minute, but do yourself (and your pediatrician’s office) a favor and get those forms and appointments early! 

Now get out and enjoy the summer with your family with less stress; just don’t forget the sunscreen! 

How Can I Boost My Child’s Immune System?

“Immune Boost” is a popular buzzword these days, especially going into the third year of a global pandemic! Parents are eager to find ways to support their child’s immune system and help their families stay healthy! However, much of the popular advice circulating on the internet isn’t accurate or scientific. The good news is in addition to a healthy lifestyle; there is research to show certain supplements can help strengthen the immune system! Here we will talk about what you can do at home to help your family stay healthy!

Healthy lifestyle matters! The common wisdom that good nutrition, sleep, daily exercise, and low stress can help you stay healthy is true!

References:

CDC: 6 tips to Enhance Immunity

The compelling link between physical activity and the body’s defense system

Impact of Lifestyle on Health

We also recommend appropriate vaccines if your child is eligible since these prime immunity against certain infections. As wonderful as nourishing our children’s bodies and supporting their immune systems are, these things do not provide targeted protection against specific illnesses. Many vaccine-preventable diseases can cause severe illness and be life-threatening. Vaccines offer safe and effective protection. If you have concerns or questions, please discuss them with your health care provider. Also, don’t forget the importance of handwashing, especially during cold and flu season!

Vaccine Safety

Did you know not all immune support is the same? Studies show certain supplements help prevent common infections like colds and diarrheal illness and others help decrease the duration or severity of illnesses when they occur! Read on for more info and a breakdown of the supplements shown to help prevent certain infections and those that can help you recover faster!

Immune boosting supplements to help prevent colds and diarrheal illnesses

 

Vitamin D    

What is it?

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that helps with calcium absorption. It also plays an important role in immune health, muscle function, and brain cell activity.

How does it boost the immune system?

Studies show regularly taking a Vitamin D supplement can reduce the number of colds you get, especially if you have low vitamin D levels!

How to get it: 

  • Food: It is hard to get enough Vitamin D from foods alone, but you can get it from fortified milk, cereal, and fatty fish. 
  • Sun: Your body can also make vitamin D when the skin is exposed to direct sunlight. However, it is difficult to make enough from this method alone as there are risks from unprotected sun exposure like sunburns and skin cancer. Therefore a supplement is usually your best bet.
  • Supplements: Studies show good results taking doses of vitamin D ranging from 400 IU/day to 2000 IU/day. The specific amount depends on age and vitamin D level, so discuss with your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.

Safety: Vitamin D supplementation is very safe for most people! Taking too much Vitamin D, however, can be a bad idea. It can lead to hypercalcemia, a condition in which too much calcium builds up in the blood, potentially forming deposits in the arteries or soft tissues. It may also predispose to painful kidney stones. Don’t take more than the recommended daily allowance unless advised by a physician (see table below.)

References:

Table of Recommended Daily Allowance for Vitamin D

Table of Recommended Daily Allowance for Vitamin D

Probiotics:

What is it?

Probiotics are live microorganisms that are the same or similar to the organisms that live in our bodies. 

How does it boost the immune system?

Research shows Probiotics can reduce the number of colds, the duration of colds, the number of school absences, and antibiotic use! Many different probiotic products are available, and specific strains can provide different health benefits. Currently, there is the most evidence for Lactobacillus Rhamsnosus to prevent colds and diarrheal illnesses. 

How to get it: 

  • Food: Probiotics are present in fermented foods like yogurt and can provide many benefits for health and a happy gut. 
  • Supplements: In order to get specific strains for particular health benefits, the best source is a supplement. A general recommendation is to choose probiotic products with at least 1 billion colony-forming units (cfus.) To help prevent colds and diarrheal illnesses, look specifically for products containing Lactobacillus Rhamsnosus. 

Safety: Side effects are minor and include mild GI symptoms. Probiotics are safe for most people, but consult your physician if you or your child has a severe or chronic medical condition that affects the immune system.

References:

Echinacea

What is it?

Echinacea is a flower and popular herbal remedy.

How does it boost the immune system?

Studies show echinacea may help prevent colds and reduce complications of colds such as pneumonia and ear infections.

How to get it: 

  • Supplements: You can get echinacea from many different types of supplements. Studies have looked at various doses and formulations of echinacea, making it hard to compare results. 

Safety: Echinacea is safe for most people, but there is a slight risk of an allergic reaction or rash. 

References:

Immune boosting supplements to help recover faster

 

Zinc:

What is it?

Zinc is a mineral and an essential nutrient, meaning the body can’t store it and must get it in our diet or from supplements. It plays a role in many physiological processes, including immune function.

How does it boost the immune system?

Research shows that taking Zinc may lower the number of colds and pneumonia. In addition, when taken within 24 hours of the start of symptoms, it also decreases the duration and severity of the common cold!

How to get it: 

  • Food: Foods like meat, shellfish, and legumes contain Zinc. 
  • Supplements: Some studies show the best results with 20mg a day supplement for immune benefits. 

Safety: Zinc is safe for most people! However, side effects can include mild GI upset and bad taste. In addition, we recommend avoiding intranasal forms like nasal sprays or swabs because they have caused permanent loss of smell in some people. 

References:

 

Elderberry:

What is it? 

Elderberry is a fruit from the Elderberry Tree.

How does it boost the immune system?

Studies have shown promising evidence that Elderberry can shorten the length and severity of cold and flu symptoms. 

How to get it: 

  • Directly: You could consume Elderberries directly with likely the same benefits. However, certain parts of the plant can be toxic and cause stomach upset, so proper preparation is important for safety.
  • Supplements: Supplements are most likely the most efficient and safest way to get immune benefits. Many elderberry products are now available. Studies have included a range of doses, but most have shown the best results with 600 – 1000mg a day.

Safety: Elderberry is safe for most people! No harmful effects have been reported from taking Elderberry supplements. However, as mentioned, certain parts of the plant can be toxic. If it is prepared improperly or if too much is consumed, it can cause GI symptoms. 

References:

Vitamin C: 

What is it?

Vitamin C is an essential vitamin meaning the body can’t store it, so you must get it from your diet or supplements. It is an antioxidant and plays a vital role in immune health, healing, and building blood vessels, cartilage, and bone. 

How does it boost the immune system?

Studies show Vitamin C can decrease the duration and severity of cold symptoms.

How to get it: 

  • Foods: Vitamin C is found in citrus fruits, berries, potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, broccoli and spinach.
  • Supplements: It is possible to get adequate Vitamin C from a diverse, healthy diet. However, you may be able to get extra immune benefits if you supplement your intake. Studies have shown doses of 1-2g a day have the best results.

Safety: Vitamin C is considered safe for most people; however, high doses can cause digestive distress like diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal cramps.

References:

 

At ZenOsa we are committed to using science to create natural remedies that actually work! For example, our natural cough syrups contain Elderberry, Zinc, and Vitamin C, all shown to help you recover faster from colds and the flu! We included vitamin D as well since we are more likely to be low in the winter months, and a little boost may help prevent recurrent infections. We wanted to include all of the most beneficial ingredients in one product, so you don’t have to give your child multiple things! Check them out here!

And we have more good news; in the pipeline at ZenOsa are our new daily immune boost supplements for kids and babies to help them stay healthy! They include science-backed ingredients that help prevent common illnesses like colds and stomach bugs. These include probiotics (Lactobacillus Rhamsnosus,) Zinc, Echinacea, and Vitamin D. We hope to launch this fall, so make sure you’re on our email list and stay tuned!

 

Mom holding spoonfull of medicine for kid seated nearby.

5 tips on how to give medicines to kids

Giving medicine to kids and babies can feel impossible! But, with our 5 simple tips, giving medications to even the wiggliest little ones is doable.

 

1. Keep it positive!
Try to avoid creating a negative association.
  • If we need to give medicines, our little one is already not feeling well. If we abruptly hold them down and forcefully squirt medicine in the back of their throats when they are already upset, they are unlikely to feel like cooperating. They also won’t be very excited about getting treatment the next time.
  • Try to give the medicine when you and your child are calm. Some protesting may be unavoidable, but do what you can to make them comfortable before you start. Try to tell them in a calming voice what you are doing beforehand. For tiny babies, swaddle them and get them nice and cozy before giving the medication.

 

2. Be prepared.

Get everything ready before you start.
  • You don’t want to be scrambling to open a medicine bottle while holding a squirmy baby.
  • What do you need?
    • Double-check your dose, draw up the right amount of medicine beforehand and set it in a spot you can easily reach.
  • Call in backup if you need it.
  • Even tiny babies can be tough to keep still, and having an extra set of hands to help with holding the baby or handling the medication can make things go a lot smoother.

 

3. Master your technique.

Yes, there is a technique!
  • What not to do:
    • Squirting the medicine straight in at once usually ends up with them spitting it out or gagging on it.
  • What to do:
    • Slide the dropper or oral syringe inside the mouth, along the inside of one cheek. Squirt a small amount of medicine to the back of the cheek and listen for a swallow. Repeat until you give the whole volume.
    • You can even let them suck on the oral syringe if they like the taste.

 

4. A spoonful of honey helps the medicine go down!

Offer something yummy and comforting after the medication, like a breastfeed or bottle to soothe and help wash it down.
  • For toddlers, you can offer something tasty like honey (only if your child is over age 1,) diluted juice, Pedialyte, or even a popsicle.
  • As a bonus, offering your child extra fluids will help them stay hydrated, which is always important when they’re sick!

 

5. What if they spit it out?

Sometimes even with the best technique, your little one will spit that medicine right out.
  • If it is relatively immediate (less than 30 minutes):
    • If it is close to the total amount, repeat the steps above and give another dose.

 

  • If it has been more than 30 minutes and they vomit:
    • They have likely absorbed some of the medicine, so it is best to wait until it is time to give another dose.
    • In the case of fever/pain remedies, you may be able to provide a different medication instead.
    • Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen work differently and are safe together, so if your child has vomited after administering one and still has symptoms, you can give the other.

 

child blowing her nose with winter clothes

Cold and Flu Home Remedies for Kid

One of the most frequent questions we get from parents in our pediatrics office is “what are the best cold and flu home remedies?” Although it comes around every year, cold and flu season can still bring stress and sleepless nights. If your child is in daycare or school, it can feel like the colds are nonstop from fall through spring. Even though we can’t eliminate those nasty viruses, we can give you the inside scoop on our favorite cold and flu season home remedies. Read on to learn what we stock our medicine cabinets with as pediatrician moms!

Stuffy Noses

Nasal saline spray or drops– help loosen up nasal congestion and soothe dry, irritated nasal passages.

  • We recommend 1 spray in each nostril or 1-2 drops in each nostril.

 

Snot sucker (nasal aspirator) – just like it sounds, these are devices designed to help suck the mucous out of your baby or child’s nose since they can’t yet blow their noses effectively.

  • There are many different types, but we recommend one that comes apart entirely so you can clean it well. The bulb suctions you get in the hospital for your newborn are ok for a few uses but are difficult to clean thoroughly, so we recommend replacing them pretty quickly.
  • Nasal suction works best after nasal saline drops or spray to loosen the congestion.

 

Humidifier – adding moisture to the air can help loosen nasal congestion and soothe dry coughs.

  • There are many great options out there! Be sure to use them as directed and clean regularly to avoid mold and germs.

 

Gentle face wipes or tissues with aloe – runny noses can be constant, and continuous wiping can irritate little noses.

  • We recommend soft tissues with aloe or unscented wet wipes that contain mostly water.

 

Fevers and discomfort

 

Fever and pain medicines – Fevers are one of the body’s ways of fighting off infection. They don’t always need treatment, but if they are making your child feel poorly or not eating or drinking well, treating the fever can help them feel better. If they have pain from body aches or a sore throat these medicines can provide some relief.

  • Acetaminophen is the only safe option for pain and fever medication for babies under six months.
  • Ibuprofen is a pain reliever and fever medication that decreases inflammation and is safe to give after six months of age.
  • For more information about fevers, check out our article, Fever FAQ.

 

Coughs and Scratchy Throats

Natural cough syrups – conventional cough medicines typically contain dextromethorphan, which is not safe in children under six. They are also not as effective as some natural remedies such as honey. I bet you can guess our go-to’s for natural cough medicine for our kids!

  • ZenOsa’s Organic Children’s Cough Syrup – has delicious organic honey, which soothes the throat and decreases cough. Honey is only safe for children over one year.
  • ZenOsa’s Organic Baby Cough Syrup – is safe for babies less than one year of age and contains monk fruit instead of honey.
  • Both of our formulations contain powerful immune-boosting vitamins to help your child recover faster!

 

Menthol Chest Rub – for children over age two apply a mentholated chest rub over their chest and neck to help relieve symptoms of cough. If your child has sensitive skin test a small patch of skin before applying liberally.

 

Liquids – Helping your child drink plenty of fluids helps to avoid dehydration and can thin out mucous that causes stuffy noses and coughs.

  • Water
  • Pedialyte
  • Diluted juice (half juice/half water)
  • Popsicles

 

Vitamins

Immune supporting vitamins – there is evidence that certain supplements can help cold symptoms resolve faster!

  • ZenOsa’s cough syrup formulations contain the recommended immune-boosting ingredients, so you don’t have to give multiple medications; parenting win!
  • We recommend elderberry, zinc, vitamin c, and vitamin d to help your little one recover sooner!

 

 

We hope these effective home remedies help you get through cold and flu season with a little less worry. As always, if you have questions or concerns about your child’s health, be sure to discuss them with your pediatrician! Best of luck this cold and flu season!

 

Brown medicine bottle with medicine dropper containing a honey colored liquid.

Is Natural the Same as Organic?

Is Natural the Same as Organic?

 

There is a growing demand for organic and natural products amongst savvy consumers. However, brands can use these terms on their labels differently, and it can be unclear. Customers may be unsure whether natural is the same as organic or whether it even matters! We are big fans of natural, organic ingredients at ZenOsa, but it is important to know that “natural” doesn’t always mean better! Read on for more info on what it means for a product to claim it is “natural” and what to look for if you want to make sure that you are an informed consumer!

 

What does it mean if a product says it is “natural?”

A product saying “Natural” is fine, but the truth is, it doesn’t tell you much by itself! The word “natural” doesn’t have a clear legal definition or require a special certification. If this is important to you, you can be a savvy consumer by checking the label for what specific ingredients are listed. Pay attention to how transparent the company is about what is and isn’t in the product. For example, brands can list “natural flavors” as an ingredient without clarifying what that means. This term is loosely regulated and can contain >100 different chemicals that companies are not required to disclose.

 

Are natural products automatically safer?

Not necessarily! Natural doesn’t mean that the product doesn’t potentially include harmful things that could cause adverse or allergic reactions. Beware of vague or misleading ingredients. Supplements generally are also more loosely regulated than other types of medications. Therefore, you want to make sure you research, check labels and choose brands you trust! 

 

What does it mean if a product says it is “organic?”

Organic ingredients have to meet strict guidelines about how the producers grow and source them. A product must contain at least 95% organic ingredients overall to get a USDA Certified Organic seal. We chose to offer certified organic products because this certification holds brands accountable for higher quality and sustainability standards throughout the production process; from growing and sourcing ingredients through manufacturing and production. Choosing certified organic to us means choosing the safest option for our planet and our kids, a no brainer!

 

The ZenOsa Difference:

Natural

But we mean it! At ZenOsa, when we say “natural,” we mean our ingredients come from nature and that our products are drug-free and contain no artificial flavors or colors.

Organic

Our products are USDA certified organic, so you can be sure they are of the highest quality and standards.

Safe

As Pediatrician Moms, we created our formulas with the help of a team of physician-scientists who use the latest scientific evidence to support their efficacy and safety. Our products are also drug-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, and alcohol-free.

Transparent 

We formulate our products using simple ingredients backed by science. We are committed to clearly listing every ingredient in our products so that you, our consumers, can make an informed choice. We even take it a step further, and when we use something in our products, we want you to know why! So if we use it, you can be sure that it is not only safe, but it is there for a reason. Check out our learn more page for more info about each of our ingredients and shop for ZenOsa products here.

Read more about our choices regarding organic ingredients on our faq page, here. For more information on USDA organic certification requirements head to the USDA website. To deep dive into what labeling requirements are in place by the FDA for food and dietary substances, read more here.

In summary, some excellent natural ingredients can be great for our health! However, natural products aren’t automatically better. There is a growing body of research studying which natural remedies and supplements have scientifically proven benefits and which do not. Choose companies that back up their ingredients with science and tell you the whole story about what is in their products!

Fever in Kids

When kids have a fever, it can cause a lot of worry and uncertainty for parents. We get it! This is understandable since fevers can make your child feel awful and in rare cases can be a sign of something serious. When fevers first start it is hard to know whether it is something serious or no big deal! The good news is most fevers are nothing to worry about and armed with a little knowledge and know-how, you and your kiddo will be feeling better in no time!

 

 

What is a fever?

Temperatures fluctuate throughout the day and vary from person to person. If your child feels warm and is flushed, they may have a fever, but this is not an accurate way to assess their temperature as it can be affected by things like their environment, being overdressed, activity level, etc. The most accurate way to assess fever is to use a thermometer.

 

The exact cutoff for what we call a fever in medicine depends on how you measure:
  • measured orally (in the mouth): 100°F (37.8°C)
  • measured rectally (in the bottom): 100.4°F (38°C)
  • measured in an axillary position (under the arm): 99°F (37.2°C)

 

What causes a fever?

For as much worry as they cause, fevers are not a problem in and of themselves and are really just a clue that there is an infection or inflammation going on in the body. Believe it or not, fevers are usually a good thing!
  • Fevers are a normal physiologic response to illness and the body’s way of resetting it’s internal thermostat to try to fight off infection.

 

Will fever harm my child?

  • In the far majority of cases, no.
  • Even high fevers do not usually cause brain damage or other complications.
  • Most of the time we only recommend treating fevers when they make your child feel crummy or to avoid dehydration.

How high is too high of a fever?

Did you know there is not typically a set temperature above which we need to worry?
  • A fever would have to be 108 or higher to cause brain damage. Temperatures this high are very rare and often involve external factors such as a very hot environment.
  • However, sustained fever above 102 can cause dehydration and in some cases a high fever > 104 can be a sign of more serious illness and is a reason to consult a physician.

 

The best way to evaluate how your child is doing is to look at their behavior and appearance. Things to consider:
  • Are they eating and drinking well (emphasis on drinking and hydration, it is ok for appetite to be decreased for a few days.)
  • Do they still have periods during the day when they are playful and happy?
  • Do they look ok when their fever comes down or are they still listless or sleepy?
  • Aside from nap or bedtimes are they relatively alert and interacting with you?

How do I treat a fever?

  • In babies 3-6 months Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is recommended.
  • After 6 months Ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil) can also be used.
  • Do not give your child Aspirin which has been associated with a disorder called Reye syndrome that can occur in the setting of a virus with use of Aspirin.
  • In addition to medications, simple measures such as encouraging hydration, offering cool liquids or popsicles, avoiding overbundeling, keeping the home or bedroom cool, and applying a cool washcloth on the forehead can also help. It is not recommended to put the child in a cold bath as it doesn’t provide any additional benefit and can be very uncomfortable. Shivering can even raise the body temperature. A lukewarm bath can be helpful though.
  • If your child is under 3 months with fever they should be evaluated by a physician.

When should I call my Pediatrician?

Most fevers can be safely treated at home, but as always if you are worried or have questions, give your pediatrician’s office a call! That is what we are here for. Otherwise, below are some signs that it is time to check in with your child’s doc.

 

  • If your child is younger than 3 months and has a temperature of 100.4 or more
  • If your child has an immune system problem or is on medications that weaken their immune system
  • If your child has been in a very hot environment such as a hot car
  • If your child looks very ill, is extremely sleepy or fussy and unconsolable
  • If your child has signs of dehydration; ie. lethargy, sunken eyes, no urine in > 8 hours, not making tears
  • If your child has difficulty breathing that doesn’t improve with clearing nasal congestion
  • If your child has severe pain; head, neck,  throat, ear or abdominal pain
  • If your child has a seizure
  • If your child has had a fever for more than 3 days or persistently higher than 102
  • If your child doesn’t seem to be feeling or looking better when fever comes down
  • If your child has severe vomiting or diarrhea

 

Helpful Resources:

Fever – kidshealth.org

 

Fever without Fear – healthychildren.org