We all want to support our kid’s health and ensure our children are vibrant and healthy, but children will inevitably get sick at times. It is virtually impossible to germproof your child, as germs are abundant everywhere, especially at school! Being exposed to germs is a part of life, and exposure to these different viruses and bacteria can strengthen children’s immune system.

When working properly, the immune system fights disease producing bacteria and viruses, and exposure to them does not necessarily mean that your child will get sick. However, a child with a weakened immune system is vulnerable to colds, flu, and more serious illnesses.

If your child is overly susceptible to illness, you may want to take steps to enhance his or her immune system and make it as strong as possible. Prevention is the way to avoid trips to the doctors and prescribed medications.

However, when your child is ill, here are some tips to follow:

• Listen to your child – If they say they don’t need to be in bed, then they probably don’t. But if your child is unusually fussy or cries a lot, you may need a professional opinion.
• Let the air in – If a room becomes too warm your child will probably feel worse.
• Allow your child to rest – If your child is sick they will need plenty of rest. Dozing off and sleeping may be what your child needs to recover.
• Give your child plenty to drink – A sick child will often have very little appetite, especially when they have a stomach ache, a fever or a sore throat. But it is important that they drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration, especially if he/she has fever, vomiting or diarrhoea.
• Always trust your gut instinct – You know your child better than anyone else, so always trust your gut instinct and seek help if you’re worried.

A strong, healthy immune system can help ward off these niggly germs and avoid trips to the doctor’s surgery, so how can you ensure that your children’s immune system is in tip-top shape this winter?

• Give them fresh fruit and vegetables – Follow the rainbow and try to get them to eat a variety of coloured vegetables and fruit every day. They contain vitamin C, beta-carotene and folate along with minerals that contribute to the normal function of the immune system.
• Play in the sun – The winter months can mean that we see the sun less, but the sunshine vitamin D helps the function of the immune system, so to ensure good levels throughout winter, you could top with up with vitamin D for kids. Playing outside will ensure plenty of fresh air and exercise, mother nature can be an excellent immune stimulator and help ensure good restorative sleep at night.
• Don’t forget the minerals – Zinc, selenium and iron are important minerals for the normal functioning of your immune system and can be found in red meats. Almond butter is a good source of zinc and iron, and brazil nut butter for selenium.
• If you are looking for a supplement to support your children’s immune system try Haliborange kids’s multivitamin Softies