A child's stomachache can be caused by any number of factors. She may have a stomach virus, have eaten too much junk food or may be dealing with emotional stress. Although these issues are all common and easily treated, a stomachache is sometimes an indication of a larger problem. If she has diarrhea, bloody stool or a fever as well as an upset stomach, call her doctor.
Food
Although feeding a sick child may seem counter-intuitive, certain kinds of foods can actually help the child feel better. Give him applesauce, bananas, unsweetened cereal, dry toast, plain rice and crackers. If he has vomiting, wait several hours before feeding him anything. Serve him nothing but bland foods for the first 24 hours after he reports feeling sick. If he still feels sick, continue the bland diet until he feels better. If he does feel better after the first 24 hours, slowly introduce other foods, but avoid giving him anything fried or sugary until he feels completely better.
Drinks
Giving her plenty of liquids is essential, particularly if she's been vomiting since this can cause potentially dangerous dehydration. Keep a glass of cold water next to her at all times, since the cold liquid may settle her stomach while also keeping her hydrated. Flat ginger ale may also give her some relief. Check the label to make sure it contains pure ginger, since this is the ingredient that is known to help with nausea. If the child has vomited, give her an oral rehydration solution. These drinks help the child rehydrate and replenish her electrolytes. Buy them in the medicine aisle at the grocery store.
Rest
Running and jumping around will make your child feel worse and can actually trigger vomiting. Resting quietly will give his body the chance to recuperate. Encourage him to sit or lie down and place a heating pad on his stomach. When he starts to feel better, take him on a walk around the block to ensure that being active won't make his nausea return. Rest is also important if his nausea is caused by stress. Pampering him by covering him in a blankets and letting him watch a movie will help him calm down.
Medication
Some over-the-counter medications may make help make a child with an upset stomach feel better, but avoid giving her anything that's intended for adult use. Look for calcium-based antacids that are specifically designed for children. Consult your child's doctor to make sure there are no interactions with any prescription medications she is taking. Give her a single dose and watch her closely to see if it makes her feel better before giving any further doses.
