Preventing Colds as the Seasons Change

Young Kids' Risk of Colds

Due to young children going to daycare, preschool, school and different friends' and relatives' houses, they are most likely to get colds during the year, but they also are strengthening and maturing their immune system during this time. If your toddler or preschooler has a runny nose all the time, it's not that abnormal. Most preschoolers get five to seven or even more colds each year.

The most successful way of spreading a cold is transferring mucus secretions to the fingers and hands and then to the mouth or nose of another person. While mouthing toys or other objects is a young child's way of exploring the world, parents must watch out for any items that might harbor bacteria. It is also impossible to monitor a child who is sharing toys or food or just playing in general with other children, whether they are at home or in school. 

Here are some tips to reduce your young child's risk of colds:

• Wash toys with soap and water and then allow them to air-dry. Many plastic toys are also dishwasher-safe and can be washed that way.
• Wash pacifiers with soap and water frequently.
• Wipe young kids' hands with a clean washcloth and warm water often. Babies love to put their hands in their mouths.
• Wash young kids' hands before and after eating and after playtime.
• Tell your child never to share food or drinks with other children.
• Keep your child home from school or daycare when they are sick.