Children are full of life in their growing years, so much so that they want to explore anything and everything. While you think of rain as a breeding ground for diseases and pests, they long to enjoy it. While you avoid going out in the cold, they wish to play out. It is almost impossible to restrain them in such situations since that would make them stubborn and irritable. Moreover, children must not be overprotected as that would make them sensitive.
But being a parent makes you ponder how to increase immunity in kids and help them ward off diseases.
Following are five simple steps to do that-
- Protection from germs: With the COVID-19 virus on the loose, we can definitely not compromise on hygiene and sanitation. Though they have understood the importance of sanitising and washing hands very well by now, they must also be taught to wash fruits before eating, not to eat or drink if they have touched swings or things meant for public use, etc. This can help them avoid diseases like flu and viral diseases.
- The miraculous essential oils: Now, this is something not many parents know about. The essential oils you use for skincare are also fun and easy immune-boosters. Eucalyptus and oregano are known to have antibacterial and immune-modulating capabilities. You can diffuse them into your indoor environment, especially in the living room or play area. Eucalyptus has an energising effect, and food-grade oregano essential oil can be added to their favourite foods.
- A balanced sleep schedule: It is said that the body’s immune system is most active at night. It’s the time when the body produces essential proteins like cytokines which fight infections. Ensure your child takes proper sleep. The minimum sleep hours vary for kids as per their age-Sleep requirements for each night vary by age:
- Babies between 0 and 3 months need 14 to 17 hours of sleep.
- Babies between 4 and 12 months should sleep for at least 12 to 16 hours.
- Toddlers between the ages of 1 and 2 should have a sleep cycle of 11 and 14 hours.
- Kids between the ages of 3 and 5 should get 10 to 13 hours of sleep.
- Children aged 6 to 12 should sleep for 9 and 12 hours.
- Proper nutrition: This is an essential requirement to build a strong immune system. Find out your kid’s favourite fruit and pack it for lunch or make pancakes or juices. Vegetables such as spinach and carrot can be mashed or chopped finely to be added in sandwiches or, say Uttapam. Do not ignore the role of DHA-rich foods here. DHA for kids is like supplements for adults. While breastfed babies get the same from their mother’s milk, older children need to consume foods.
5.Vaccination: Be thorough with your child’s vaccination schedule. Ask your paediatrician about other immunity-boosters that your child might need apart from regular vaccinations.
Do not forget, the immune system varies in every child. If your child has weak immunity, you will have to pay extra attention.
