Parents, take note.
I feel like after 11 years of motherhood I should be awarded an honorary nursing degree.
You know, like when celebrities are awarded honorary degrees for their contributions to… whatever?
At least I’m qualified. I have dealt with every single childhood health complaint at one time or another and the handful I am yet to experience, will surely still happen. It’s just a matter of time.
Here’s what I’ve learned about fixing childhood health complaints. Nurse Jo, at your service.
1. Headaches.
To avoid headaches, I make sure my kids drink plenty of water. What I’ve noticed is that if water is readily available at all times, they will drink more of it. If they have to pour it themselves, they tend not to bother until they are thirsty and the dehydration headache is already forming.
I leave some filled water bottles for them on the kitchen bench that they can easily grab and drink from. They stay in the kitchen and I always make sure they are full. The kids know where they are and drink from them often. They also have full drink bottles on their school bags, in their bedroom and in the car.
2. Growing pains.
So-called ‘growing pains’ are common as little bodies grow and shift and adjust. They aren’t a big deal and a quick rub can help them pass. I’ve gotten good at deep tissue massages. As most growing pains occur in the muscles of the legs, putting their legs up for a few minutes can also work.
Cod liver oil can also help, if you can get your kids to swallow it. Just remember that if the pains are recurring, accompanied by any changes like lumps or bruising or are in the joints, get them checked by a doctor.
3. Head lice.
We have never had head lice, but my sister has had to deal with multiple cases over the years and she has already told me exactly what to do.
Tell your kids not to share school hats. Head lice also love clean hair, so if it is going around, limit hair washes, tie long hair back and if it does enter your home, burn, I mean wash, all towels, sheets and clothing.
