Nobody likes a sick day - especially when it’s your little one running a fever, coughing or just feeling under the weather. Over the years, I’ve put together a routine that helps keep them comfortable, hydrated and feeling better as naturally as possible. Here’s what I do when my kids aren’t feeling well.
Hydration First: Coconut Water
Keeping kids hydrated is the top priority. I love Coconut Water from Harmless Harvest because it’s naturally electrolyte-rich without added sugar or chemicals. I often hear people say that studies show coconut water isn’t any better than regular water. But when I look at those studies, I notice they usually use shelf-stable coconut water instead of fresh. That’s why I stick with brands like Harmless Harvest - they use fresh, minimally processed coconut water that retains more nutrients and flavor, making it a better choice for keeping kids hydrated on sick days. Sipping it throughout the day helps prevent dehydration and keeps energy levels steadier.
Soothing Drinks: Raw Honey Tea, Elderberry & Vitamin C
A warm cup of raw honey tea can calm a scratchy throat and settle little tummies. (Important: Honey should never be given to babies under 1 year old due to the risk of botulism.) For immune support, I add elderberry. Vimergy Elderberry contains honey and is best for older toddlers and kids who are past the honey age limit, while Legendairy Milk Elderberry is recommended for babies from 6+ months. I also like to mix in Sufficient C powder - it tastes great and can be added to water throughout the day, making it a simple, tasty way to provide an extra boost while keeping kids hydrated.
Vitamin D, Magnesium & Immune Defense
Vitamin D, magnesium, and additional immune boosters are all great tools to include in your routine. Garden of Life Vitamin D gummies or Legendairy Milk Vitamin D can help maintain healthy immune function, while Garden of Life Magnesium Gummies or MegaFood Blackberry Powder can promote calm and restful sleep. Enzymedica Immune Defense can also be given to younger children by opening the capsules for a finger-lick.
Homeopathy for Gentle Relief
I keep a homeopathic kit on hand for general kids’ sickness. Basic remedies I reach for include Aconite for sudden fevers or colds, Belladonna for high fevers with redness or heat, Chamomilla for irritability or teething discomfort and Nux Vomica for digestive upset. Homeopathy can offer a gentle and natural way to ease symptoms alongside hydration and rest.
Essential Oils & Topical Comfort
Topical care can make a big difference on sick days. A few drops of Revive Lavender Oil, a Protect or Immunity Boost Roll-On, Motherlove ChestRub, or a spritz of Cymbiotika Magnesium Spray can help calm and soothe children when they’re feeling crummy. Diffusing Germ-Away in their room can help open airways, promote easier breathing and create a more relaxing environment. Rubbing these oils or sprays on the bottoms of feet, chest, spine, neck, and behind the ears can stimulate lymphatic drainage and circulation, helping the body process and recover more efficiently.
The Routine in Action
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Keep coconut water on hand throughout the day to maintain hydration and energy.
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Offer raw honey tea with elderberry and Sufficient C to soothe discomfort and provide an immune boost.
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Include Vitamin D, magnesium, or Immune Defense to encourage relaxation, immunity and general well-being.
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Use homeopathic remedies to gently address symptoms as needed.
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Apply essential oils, ChestRub, or magnesium spray to ease congestion, calm the senses and support circulation.
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Diffuse Germ-Away or another calming essential oil to help open airways and create a more comfortable environment.
Bottom Line
Sick days are never fun, but a simple and natural routine that emphasizes hydration and gentle remedies allows children’s bodies to respond to illness naturally. Letting their bodies go through the sickness while giving them safe and supportive care often brings more peace of mind for parents and can help shorten the duration and reduce the intensity of symptoms, leaving kids feeling better and more comfortable sooner.
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider if your child has a serious illness, high fever, or persistent symptoms. Never give honey to infants under 1 year old.