The imminent arrival of cold and flu season reminds us parents that they’re not exactly illnesses; they’re a fact of life like water is wet and the sun is hot.

While the occasional cold wouldn’t concern most parents, “Is my child getting sick too often?” is the distressed question many ask.

According to the Mayo Clinic, paediatricians find it typical for young children to have up to 12 colds a year, or 7-8 on average. However, these aren’t go-to numbers because environmental exposure could subject children to more germs. One common example is children who begin to attend daycare.

To debunk some common myths and beliefs, ‘going to bed with wet hair’ and ‘a drop in temperature’ don’t cause a child to get sick but crowding indoors in winter might. Diet is usually a non-factor in developed countries, and no ‘eating too many crackers during the day’ isn’t the culprit either.

Breastfeeding has been shown to reduce infections among young children, but keeping our kids’ vaccines up-to-date is probably the best form of immunity. As you would expect, practising good hygiene and getting enough nutrition and rest also go a long way.

Tending to sick kids can be tiresome and frustrating for parents, but colds are often a normal part of childhood. You should be concerned if your child frequently needs hospitalization, antibiotics, experiences persistent infections, or exhibits other red flags. If in doubt, do not hesitate to consult your healthcare provider for advice.

This is how I look at it: When my kids are exposed to various viruses, their immune system is being trained and strengthened, which will help them fight off illnesses more effectively as they grow.

By Daria Horbal, BSc.Phm.