Cough Remedies for Toddlers

If your toddler has come down with a cough, you will want to treat it whether it's a result of allergies, a cold or something more serious, such as pneumonia. If the cough is not treated, your toddler may have a hard time sleeping. Rest is important for your toddler to heal.

Daytime

• Make a natural cough medicine for your toddler. The American Academy of Pediatrics has warned that over-the-counter cough remedies are not safe for children under the age of two because of possible life-threatening side effects. Pour 2 ounces of water in a glass and add 1 tsp. of honey. Squeeze in the juice of 1/4 lemon. Mix thoroughly. Have your toddler drink it down. Your toddler can use this home cough drink two to three times a day.

  Warning: Do not give honey to a child under the age of 12 months. It can cause infant botulism.

Before Bed

• Give your child a warm bath. Add 10 drops of eucalyptus oil to the bath water. The eucalyptus oil will help to clear up any congestion that is causing your toddler to cough. After your child gets out of the bath, dress her in comfortable pajamas. Spread some vapor rub on your toddler's pajamas. The vapor rub will help to reduce the amount of congestion your toddler is experiencing.

  Warning: Do not put the vapor rub directly on your toddler's skin. It can burn.

Bedtime

• Elevate the head of your toddler's bed. Coughing is less likely in an upright position. You can roll up a blanket and place it between the mattress and the box spring, or use an extra pillow.

  Set up a humidifier. Turn it on a few minutes before your toddler is ready to go to bed. The humidifier will keep the air moist. When your toddler breathes in moist air, it keeps his throat from becoming too dry.