How to support your child’s health and wellbeing this winter

Kids often seem to pick up every virus going around during the colder months. Here are some simple steps you can take to support their health.

With plenty of colds and sniffles circulating, it can feel like keeping your little ones shielded from winter sickness is a near impossible job.

Thoughts of that never-ending cycle of blocked noses, coughing and sneezing can leave you wanting to hide deep under the doona until summer comes around again.

But the colder months don’t need to derail your plans.

Here’s how to support your family’s immune system this winter.

1. The nose knows

It might sound a bit obvious, but kids aren’t born knowing how to blow their noses or sneeze into their elbows.

And while it might take patience, it’s up to us to teach them.

Show your child how to cover their mouth and nose with a tissue when they’re coughing or sneezing – and then wash their hands afterwards – to stop germs and viruses clinging to tiny hands.

2. Grandma was right

Yes, Nan was right about everything, including the healing powers of chicken soup.

Turns out this family winter favourite may contain some anti-inflammatory substances that may ease cold symptoms.

Plus, it’s easy to digest, helps prevent kids from becoming dehydrated and can feel soothing for a sore throat.

You can sneak a few vegies in too, if you cut them up small.

3. Have a laugh

For a fun way to keep the viruses at bay, have a good old belly laugh together (knock knock jokes or a funny movie should do it).

An early study indicates laughing may give the immune system a boost and lower stress levels.

4. Rug up and play outdoors

Regular fresh air is important in cold weather when central heating dries out the air.

Plus more germs tend to circulate when you’re all cooped up together inside.

Wrap up and grab the dog, a ball, the scooters… or whatever it is your kids love, and head to the park.

5. Get plenty of rest

And after all that outdoor activity, make sure you take some time to rest and relax.

Research shows sleep is good for immunity, and can help children produce cytokines, a type of protein.

Their little bodies need these to be able to fight off illnesses and infection.

6. Keep up the nutrients and vitamins

Sometimes children need a little extra nutritional support.

Pentavite Daily Immune Support Gummies maintain immune system health and contain elderberry traditionally used in Western herbal medicine to reduce common cold symptoms.

Recognising gummies are the way kids (and many adults) prefer to take their vitamins, the brand has created products containing no artificial colours, flavours or sweeteners so that parents can be confident they have no added artificial nasties.

Dedicated to children’s health for more than 50 years, Pentavite also has gummies to suit other daily needs, such as Pentavite Daily Multivitamin Gummies to support healthy growth and development and the Pentavite Daily Calcium + Vit D3 Gummies to maintain kids’ strong teeth and bones.

* This post is brought to you by Pentavite.  Always read the label and follow the directions for use. If symptoms persist, talk to your health professional. Vitamins and minerals should not replace a balanced diet.