How to Help Your Child Sleep When They’re Sick
It can be hard getting your child to sleep at the best of times, but even more so when they’re feeling under the weather. If they have congestion, a runny nose, or a cough, it’s more likely to keep them up at night1. Fortunately, there are some simple things you can do to comfort your child when they’re sick1.
Here, we’ll explore how to help your sick baby sleep and provide some useful home remedies and safety advice when sleeping with a sick baby.
How long should you let a sick child sleep?
Being sick can disrupt the usual sleep patterns of babies and children, which can be exhausting for you both2. Sick children will feel tired and need plenty of rest3. So, it’s important to encourage your child to sleep whenever they need to3.
The amount of sleep your child needs to have on a regular basis to stay healthy (excluding naps) is:
4-12 months: 12-16 hours
1-2 years: 11-14 hours
3-5 years: 10-13 hours
6-12 years: 9-12 hours (excluding naps)
How to make your child more comfortable when they’re sick
Even though their illness is likely nothing serious, they may need some extra help, so they feel more comfortable4. Luckily, some simple steps can help you look after them.
Make sure they drink plenty of fluids
Just like adults, babies and children need to drink plenty of fluids when they’re sick1. Getting enough fluids helps to clear mucus1, which could help your congested child feel more at ease. It’s best to give babies under the age of six months breastmilk or formula to hydrate them1. For older children, if their sickness has put them off eating, encourage them to drink nutritious drinks, such as milk3.
Keep their room airy
Warm rooms can make children feel worse when they’re unwell, so try to keep their space well ventilated3. You can also consider using a humidifier or cool mist vaporiser if they have congestion. Introducing moisture to the air in their room can help keep their nasal passages moist, helping to reduce stuffiness and coughing at night1.
Give them lots of extra love and comfort
When your child is sick, sometimes an extra dose of love and comfort can help them to feel more at ease. Hold them close, reassure them, and shower them with affection1.
Use medication to help manage symptoms
Painkillers like ibuprofen and paracetamol can help to treat pain and fever in children5. CALPOL® products are designed to provide pain and fever relief, as well as relief from cold symptoms. Age ranges vary, so refer to the product information for further guidance and dosage instructions5.
Trust your instincts
Every child is different but remember that you know them best. That’s why it’s important to trust your instincts if your child or baby is sick4. And remember, you’re not on your own – you can get reassurance and advice from professionals if needed4, including pharmacists, doctors, and healthcare visitors.
Safety advice for sleeping with a sick baby
If you have a sick baby or infant, you should ensure they have a safe and secure environment for naps or bedtime. Here are some tips to help your baby sleep safely:
Never fall asleep on the sofa or an armchair with a sick baby2,3
Always put your baby on their back when putting them to sleep2
Place them to sleep on a firm, flat mattress without any loose bedding2
Never cover their face or head when they’re sleeping2
Try to avoid them becoming too warm2
Keep the area they sleep in a smoke-free zone2
It’s important to follow safe sleeping guidance, as it can help to reduce the chance of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)2. If you’re comfy with your child and you feel sleepy, always move them to a safe location, such as their bedroom2, even if you’re both feeling exhausted3.
When to seek medical support for your sick child
When your child is sick, it can be a worrying time, but it’s most likely nothing serious4. If you need guidance and reassurance, you can get support from your GP, practice nurse, or pharmacist3.
Consult your local pharmacist for everyday illnesses (such as cough or cold, baby acne, colic, cradle cap, and nappy rash)3,4. They will provide advice and suggest treatment where necessary. Your pharmacist can also refer your child to your GP practice4.
The GP can treat your child and prescribe medicines3. Some health visitors, nurses and pharmacists can also diagnose illness and prescribe medicines for your child3.
You know your baby best, so remember the most important thing is to trust your instincts. There’s always help available for you and your baby – you’re never on your own.
If your child shows signs of serious illness, contact your GP directly or take them to A&E3.
You should seek immediate medical help by calling 999 if your baby4:
Is struggling to breathe and making grunting noises
Has pale, cold, blotchy skin or their skin is turning blue
Looks like they are having a fit or seizure
Is floppy, drowsy or isn’t responding to you or you can’t wake them up
Has spots or a rash that doesn’t fade or lose colour when a clear glass is pressed against it
Looking after yourself when your child is sick
Even a couple of days spent looking after a sick child can be exhausting3. It’s important to get plenty of rest and sleep when you can – particularly when your child is sleeping. You can also see if anyone else can help take care of your child now and then to give you a break3.