Diarrhea is a common ailment that most children will experience from time to time. According to KidsHealth.org, diarrhea is frequent, watery or runny bowel movements that usually occur as the result of an infection of the gastrointestinal system -- viruses, parasites or bacteria. Diarrhea can be spread through dirty hands, contaminated food and water sources, pets or contact with fecal matter. While diarrhea in 4-year-olds or any child is rarely a serious concern, it needs to be treated to prevent dehydration.
Step 1
Know the symptoms of diarrhea. In addition to watery stool, your 4-year-old may also experience a fever, loss of appetite, nausea, dehydration, weight loss or vomiting.
Step 2
Keep your 4-year-old as comfortable as possible. Hold him, comfort him and make sure he is wearing clean, dry underwear at all times to prevent irritation from loose stool.
Step 3
Give your child plenty of fluids. Mild diarrhea can usually be treated at home. Give your child plenty of water and clear liquids -- such as tea, fruit juice, gelatin dissolved in water, sports drinks and chicken broth. You may also wants to use a pediatric electrolyte supplement to help prevent dehydration.
Step 4
Give your 4-year-old plain yogurt. BabyCenter.com indicates that the live bacterial cultures in yogurt can help reduce the amount and duration of yogurt. Be sure to give your child yogurt that contains lactobacillus live cultures.
Step 5
Reintroduce your child to bland foods when she is successfully able to keep liquids down. Try crackers, toast, pretzels or chicken noodle soup. The BRAT diet is often recommended by pediatricians after diarrhea subsides: banana, rice, apple sauce and dry toast. When your child is able to eat these foods without any problems, you can then resume giving regular foods.
