How to Prepare Your Child for Winter Germs

The cold weather’s creeping in again, and with it comes the usual suspects: runny noses, coughs that sound like barking seals, and the dreaded school bug that somehow makes its way through every classroom in town. It’s not exactly a surprise, but still, it catches people off guard every year.

Good Habits

So, what helps? Not miracle cures or fancy supplements, really. Just small, steady things that make a difference over time. Think of it like layering up, not just with jumpers and scarves, but with habits that quietly support your child’s body and mood through the colder months.

Some parents swear by elderberry syrup. Others stick to the basics: sleep, fresh air, and a decent breakfast. And that’s probably enough sometimes.

Here are a few things that tend to help (and don’t require a spreadsheet or a science degree):

Sleep that’s actually restful

Not just early bedtimes but winding down properly. A warm bath, a story, and maybe even a bit of quiet music.  

Food with colour

Beige dinners are comforting, sure, but adding a few bright bits like berries, carrots, or even a handful of spinach can give their immune system a bit of a boost. It doesn’t have to be perfect, just add a bit more variety.

Handwashing that sticks

Not the rushed splash-and-go. Something with soap, maybe a silly rhyme, and a towel they like using. It’s boring, but it works.

Getting outside, even when it’s chilly

A stomp through the woods or a quick scoot around the block can do wonders. Kids need movement, and fresh air isn’t just good for lungs, it’s good for moods too.

Hydration, even when they say they’re not thirsty

It’s easy to forget water when it’s cold out, but warm drinks count too. Herbal teas, diluted juice, or even just water with a splash of lemon can help keep things flowing.

Teaching them to sneeze into their elbow

It’s not glamorous, but it’s better than the sleeve or, worse, the hand. A bit of modelling from grown-ups goes a long way here.

Keeping shared spaces clean

Not obsessively, just enough to keep the worst of the germs at bay. A quick wipe of door handles, light switches, and lunchboxes can make a difference, especially if someone’s already under the weather.

Extra Support

And then there’s the emotional side of things. Winter can feel heavy, especially for children.  And of course, not every child has the same set up at home. Some are being fostered through been through Clifford House Fostering, some are adjusting to new routines and some need a bit of extra support to stay well through the colder months. Make sure to be there for them when they need you.

Stress and Immune Systems

It’s also worth remembering that children pick up on stress more than we think. If the grown-ups around them are tense or stretched thin, it can show up in their bodies, tiredness, tummy aches, even more frequent colds. So, taking care of ourselves a little better (even if it’s just five quiet minutes with a cuppa) can ripple outwards. A calm home, even a slightly chaotic one, helps children feel more secure.