What can I give my kids for a cold or cough?

Nothing cures a cold, but pediatricians say these strategies may help:

• Reduce the child's fever using appropriate medication (check with a doctor), such as acetaminophen.. Do not use ibuprofen in children under age 6 months. Do not use aspirin with any child because of the risk of Reye's syndrome, a rare but serious disease.
• Consider using honey for coughs or sore throat for kids older than 1.
• Try saline drops or saline nasal irrigation to clear thick mucus out of your child's nose.
• Give your child plenty of liquids to increase hydration and help thin mucus.
• Use a humidifier in your child's room to add moisture to the dry air.
• If your child wheezes, talk to your doctor. Your child may benefit from a bronchodilator to open airways.
• To ease congestion, keep the child's head elevated when resting.

Of course, parents should seek medical care as needed and not hesitate to ask questions. The good news about colds? Children get over colds and coughs as quickly without cold medicines as with them.