It's almost summer, and part of being a kid is having adventures. Even with stay-at-home orders and social distancing switching up the summertime script, kids are going to find ways to connect with nature. They'll also probably deal with skinned knees, bug bites, sneezes and coughs.
Add to that the current climate of the COVID-19 pandemic, and you have even more reason to watch out for your kids' health and wellness.
So, how can you support your children while they're on the go? Start by planning and building a health kit to help protect and relieve them from common ailments. Before you begin, and as you assemble the kit, remember to:
- Talk to your doctor about what supplements and dosages are best for your children.
- Teach your children the proper way to use each of the items in their kit.
What to Include in Health Kits for Kids
Arnica Montana
Arnica Montana is a homeopathic remedy that is great for bumps and bruises. It also alleviates sprains, swelling and sore muscles. Arnica comes in tablet form to be taken orally as well as in topical ointment and gel forms. Having some arnica cream in your children's kit will help heal many of those boo-boos.
Calendula
Calendula is a plant that promotes wound healing, fighting germs and curbing inflammation, making it an excellent addition to an on-the-go kit. It's also helpful for soothing insect bites, pain, rashes and burns. Calendula comes in tea, cream, wash and poultice forms. Topical calendula is a perfect multipurpose addition to your child's kit.
Slippery Elm
The inner bark of the slippery elm tree is well known for its healing properties. Its lubricating, anti-inflammatory effects allow it to coat sore throats and relieve dry, unproductive coughs and respiratory issues. It comes in many forms, including teas, powders, tinctures, syrups and lozenges. Slippery elm lozenges are easy to use and will help soothe sore throats on the spot.
Ginger
The health benefits of ginger also are very well known. Its antispasmodic properties make it excellent for alleviating digestive discomfort. Ginger also offers antioxidant support while promoting a healthy inflammatory response in the body. Allow your child to drink small amounts of ginger tea and add fresh ginger to foods. Ginger capsules or ginger chews are forms that are easily transportable and can be added to your child's kit.
Vitamin C and Zinc
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that's essential to maintaining overall health. It not only supports healthy immune system function, but it promotes healthy skin, collagen and wound healing.
The mineral zinc also provides immune system support and contributes to wound healing. Zinc is often combined with vitamin C in children's gummies, chews or tablets, which can be taken year round for wellness support.
Elderberry
Elderberry is an immune-support powerhouse. Along with vitamin C and zinc, it's an excellent addition to cold and flu season defense It can be taken at the first signs of sniffles, but you might also start giving it to your children daily as a preemptive measure to bolster their immune responses. It comes in syrup form, as well as capsules and chews that can be added to the kit.
Probiotics
Taking a daily probiotic helps support healthy "good" bacteria levels in the gut, promoting both digestive and immune health. Besides making sure your child is eating plenty of probiotic-rich foods, you might also consider a daily kid's probiotic supplement for greater benefits.
