If your toddler has a cough due to the common cold or the flu, don't reach for that over-the-counter cough syrup right away. If it's OK with your child's pediatrician, give your child home remedies to help loosen the chest, prevent the urge to cough and soothe her irritated throat, says the Mayo Clinic.
Liquids
Giving your child a variety of liquids throughout the day will help dilute mucus, preventing it from settling in the chest. Keeping your child hydrated will increase the movement of mucus, which will loosen congestion. The Mayo Clinic recommends giving your child water, juice and broth to help clear congestion. Test any hot liquids before giving them to your child to make sure they will not scald your child's mouth or skin. Instruct your child to breathe in the steam from the hot liquid to help dissolve congestion in the nasal passages and chest.
Humidifier
Running a humidifier in your child's bedroom will distribute water vapor into the air, making it easier for your child to breathe at night, says the Mayo Clinic. Humidifiers become dirty quickly and may spread bacteria and mold into the air if the devices are not cleaned properly. Change the water daily, and clean the humidifier on a regular basis to help prevent bacteria and mold from growing.
Honey
Honey may be as effective as the over-the-counter medication dextromethorphan at relieving cough symptoms, says the Mayo Clinic. Do not give honey to children under the age of one, because it may cause infant botulism, a serious form of food poisoning. Give older toddlers 2 tbsp. of honey at bedtime to help soothe coughing, or add honey to a warm cup of herbal tea or hot water with lemon. Instruct your child to inhale the steam from the warm liquid to loosen the mucus in his chest.
