Health Tips for School Aged Children

Much health advice can be applied to any aged child simply by varying doses and using common sense. Always the best health prescription is: prevention!

As our toddler moves off into the big world of pre-school then school he/she is exposed to many more influences and ‘bugs’. Therefore a strong immune system is essential. In building up immunity there are various considerations to address including diet, lifestyle, routines, season, as well as supplements and herbs. The emotional side of resuming or starting school also affects immunity and overall health so gentle aids like Rescue Remedy or other vibrational essences such as Bush or Bach flowers can aid in this transition. Sitting with our children and hearing their challenges and difficulties will also ease some of their stress. Really, love is the greatest healer.

As summer changes into autumn more cooked and warming foods are appropriate, instead of the predominance of salads and fruits of summer. The days begin to shorten and evenings are cooler so dress children accordingly.

Supplements
An immune boosting tonic is a great idea at the change of seasons. The good ol’ Echinacea (check with your Herbalist first if your child is asthmatic or allergic), or Astragalus or other individually prescribed immune boosters can be taken by the whole family now. This will assist in prevention of coughs colds and flu, and generally strengthen the body’s ability to ward off things. Boosting vitamin and mineral intake (especially for picky eaters) at this time is also an important consideration. Vitamin C, zinc, calcium and magnesium are deficient in our soil and food, therefore illnesses may manifest from a lack in children’s bodies. Veggy Buddies are delicious, as are many other multi-vitamin tablets for children.

Meals
Breakfast is an important part of getting your child off to a solid start for the day. If this food for the body is not established in the morning then the body begins to use adrenal energy which sets up a pattern of craving for sugars and refined carbohydrates and quick-fix fast food. This will affect brain function and concentration as well as emotional harmony. So make sure your child has a good breakfast. In preference to packaged cereals (especially those high in sugar), try yummy warm porridge with honey and seeds or stewed seasonal fruits with yogurt. Chawanprash (an Ayurvedic tonic) in warm milk or on toast can also be a nutritious option. Another favourite is soaked almond smoothie with fruit or whatever added.

Lunches also need consideration. Healthy whole foods in the lunch box are a must to maintain energy and concentration throughout the day. Avoid high sugar treats (save them for weekends or special times). Some lunch box ideas are: wholemeal sandwiches (remember there are many grains to choose from, and varying grains helps reduce later intolerances developing), Nori rolls, soup in a flask or wholemeal healthy pies. For morning and afternoon tea try carrot sticks or celery sticks with tahini or home made fruit bars and slices, or fresh fruits. Encourage your child to drink whole fruit juices or cold herb tea with honey to taste.

Rejuvenating after school by playing in nature or caring for a pet helps balance the school experience.

Homoeopathics
A few homeopathics that can be used now are: Aconite, for things that come on quickly, hot/feverish, high thirst and fear. Belladonna, for high fevers, red, hot throbbing head and Gelsimium, for great tiredness, heavy body feeling, flu like symptoms.
Many other remedies are useful too at this time, see us at Mullumbimby Herbals for individualised recommendations.

Question: ‘I dread the return to school as it usually means the return of headlice and worms! Can you help with some things that work?’ (Kate from Adelaide)

Answer: For headlice we have found Neem to give the best results. We have a great brand of it called Liceguard which wipes them out, and suggest a weekly treatment for three weeks. Then it can be used for prevention by spraying a little in the child’s hair before they leave for school. It doesn’t have a strong smell, so the kids don’t mind it either. Also a good quality steel nit comb (like Licemeister), used with conditioner in the hair is effective. This needs to be done daily until eliminated and then two times a week for maintenance.

And as for worms—after years of trying various products with varying results we now recommend a product called Parex, which has parasitic herbs in it as well as citrus seed extract and oregano oil. It works very well and is easy for children to take as it comes in small tablets. Contact us if you have problems getting any of these products and we’ll send them to you.