Sick days, unfortunately, happen. While you may want to push your child to go to school, it’s important that they get their rest in order to get healthy. Lake Forrest Prep, a private school in Orlando, wants you to be prepared when your child comes down with a cold. 

Ease Their Symptoms

When your child has a cold, it can feel like everything hurts. On a sick day, the top priority should be getting better. This means doing everything you can to help alleviate their symptoms.

• Rest: First things first — when you’re sick, rest is important. On average, children need about ten hours of sleep. When they’re sick, they may need even more. 
• Stay hydrated: Be sure to keep your child hydrated and have fluids available for them to sip throughout the day. If you notice their appetite has disappeared, give them an electrolyte solution, such as Gatorade or Pedialyte, in addition to water. 
• Keep Tissues Nearby: Most decongestants aren’t safe for children under four. In this case, it’s recommended to keep a cool mist humidifier in your child’s room. The added moisture will help your child breathe easier by loosening any congestion. 

Entertainment

We may think of sick days as being parked in front of the couch watching reruns of old soap operas, but there are plenty of ways to help your child get their rest while keeping their mind active — and off of their illness. Try some of these fun activities to help her feel better!

• Board games and puzzles: Both board games and puzzles are relatively low energy. Stick to games such as Monopoly, Life, or Checkers, where you don’t have to get up and move very often. 
• Crafts: Modeling clay, slime, and Play-doh are all relaxing, mess-free crafts. If you’re feeling extra creative, you can even decorate the tissue box that your child is using!
• Pretend play: Creating a stuffed-animal hospital is a great way to keep your child’s mind active. Take their teddy bear’s temperature, and ask Nurse Rabbit what the prescription is. This is a great way to help your child express how they feel.

Sick days happen, and at Lake Forrest Prep, a private school in Orlando, we encourage all families to take the time they need to get better. To learn more about our sick policy, give us a call at (407) 331-5144.