If your child seems ‘off colour’ or is refusing food this is often a sign they are coming down with an illness or simply feeling below par. If you do notice this happening or your child is more disagreeable you need to check your child’s temperature and look for signs of a rash. If there is no rash or fever, make sure your child has plenty of liquids and try to sit down and have a quiet time together and read a story.
If you have a toddler it’s very likely they’ll become more clingy or upset at the slightest thing, the best remedy is always a cuddle but thy may also want a lie down in their cot or bed. If they do go off to sleep, check regularly just to make sure they are OK.  You may also need to stay with them longer before they go to sleep or even take them into your bed if they’re very upset or you are worried.
Note: Children can often be right as reign within 24-48 hours unless it is something more serious, they often bounce back to life and you won’t believe it’s the same child!
If your child has been in contact with an ill child, keep an eye out for signs of illness or rashes behind the ears, on chest or neck area. Your son or daughter is likely to be more disagreeable, this behaviour can also happen after the death of someone close to them or a pet, so be relaxed about rules for a few days, however don’t let them hurt anyone around them.  It may interrupt your day but if you can simply sit down and focus on your child’s needs they are likely to be a lot happier and recover sooner.  Take some time to play some quiet games or do some puzzles, it will help take your mind of your child’s sickness or concerns too.
Here are some further tips:
1. Keep your child hydrated, ideally with milk or water
2. Contact your GP immediately if your child goes limp or is unresponsive
3. Spend more time with your little one
4. Keep the environment calm and relaxed
5. Give honest, age appropriate answers if your child asks a difficult question
Note: Children can often be right as reign within 24-48 hours unless it is something more serious, they often bounce back to life and you won’t believe it’s the same child! They can also be very accepting after a loss but may ask more details at a later date.
If you have any difficult matters within your family environment or you are not sure which is the best way to tackle a difficult issue, please contact me as I’ve helped families who’ve lost children or parents through illness or accident.