Children cough up phlegm when suffering from colds, coughs and other respiratory infections. On average, children suffer from six to 12 infections per year. Green- and yellow-based phlegm is a natural part of the healing process. Phlegm is often associated with a wet, "chest" cough. If the cough lasts longer than four weeks, medical attention is required, according to Seattle Children's Hospital Research Foundation.
Step 1
Provide a moist environment for your child. Keep the air in your home moist by running a cool-mist dehumidifier. Turn on a hot, steamy shower if you do not have a humidifier. Set up an area in the bathroom for your child to sit and play while moisture builds in the air.
Step 2
Heat up water and place on a placemat on a table. Have older children place their head above the steam and drape a towel over their head. Explain to them the importance of inhaling the steam to loosen phlegm.
Step 3
Offer beverages to your child ever hour. Encourage clear liquids such as apple juice and water. Avoid giving your child caffeinated beverage, such as soda or tea. Refill their cups, even when they do not ask. Offer ice pops and other frozen juice treats, to increase hydration and loosen phlegm.
Tips and Warnings
- A cough sometimes lasts several weeks, even after other cold symptoms disappear. If your child has a cough more than three weeks, visit a medical professional. When a coughing attack occurs, generally defined as coughing last more than five minutes, moist steam directly inhaled often works well. A wet cough is a positive reaction your body has to clear fluids such as phlegm and mucous from your lungs.
- Avoid giving your child cough medicine. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, honey works as well, or maybe even better, than cough medicine.
Things You'll Need
- Humidifier
- Shower
- Water
- Bowl
- Towel
- Apple juice
- Water
- Frozen treats
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