When your child has a cough due to a cold or the flu, keeping your child hydrated is critical to her health and recovery. Often, a child's appetite diminishes as a natural side effect of being sick. However, by selecting healthy drinks for your child, you help her stay hydrated and well-nourished as she recovers.
Chicken Broth
Chicken broth has long been purported as a remedy to a bad cold or flu. It turns out that this traditional remedy is right on, according to the Mayo Clinic. Chicken broth hydrates and has anti-inflammatory properties to soothe a sore throat often brought on by cough. In addition, it helps break up mucus, easing your child's cough.
Juice
Juice contains vitamins and sugars, keeping your child hydrated and providing some energy and nutrition. Avoid citrus juices; although the vitamin C may be helpful, the acidic properties of many citrus juices are too harsh for sore throats often brought on by cough. If your child finds it tough to swallow juice, make it a popsicle to get your child's throat moistened and ease his cough. Apple juice and grape juice are easier to swallow.
Water
Water may not be appealing on its own, but it keeps your child hydrated. To keep it flavorful, add a squeeze of lemon to the glass. Only add a small amount to prevent your child's throat from being irritated by the acid in the lemon. If your child's throat is very sore, prepare a salt water gargle; add a 1/4 teaspoon to an 8 oz. glass of water. Provide a cool glass of plain tap or bottled water after the child gargles.
No Caffeine
Sodas, caffeinated teas and coffees will not help your child's cough. Sodas may be irritating to a sensitive throat. The caffeine in tea and coffee has a dehydrating effect, which can make a cough worse. If your child wants to drink something warm and gets sick of broth, check with your pediatrician before using an herbal tea, states the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
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