Tag:

preschooler

Child growth and development milestones, activities to do with kids, discipline techniques and positive parenting tips for raising children.

How to treat health concerns like blood noses, colds and flu, fevers and gastro in children.

Natural, Organic And Flavourful Tea For The Whole Family
Pre-schooler FeedingPre-schoolers

Natural, Organic And Flavourful Tea For The Whole Family

by Carmién Tea
written by Carmién Tea

Make teatime for everyone: kids can safely brew their own healthy cold tea while adults enjoy their favourite cup

Rooibos, South Africa’s signature herbal tea, has seen a refreshing evolution in the form of Cold Brew Rooibos Teas. Created for both convenience and health, Carmién’s Kiddies Cold Brew range offers vibrant, naturally sugar-free, fruity flavours with caffeine-free benefits. It’s the modern-day hydration hero for children, but delicious enough for the whole family.

Here are four of the best ways to enjoy Cold Brew Rooibos Tea and the benefits of three standout blends in the Carmién’s Kiddies range.

Fun Ways To Enjoy Cold Brew Rooibos Tea: 

  1. School-Ready Hydration – Sip All Day Long

One of the best ways to prepare Carmién Cold Brew Rooibos Tea is putting it into your child’s water bottle. Simply pop a bio-degradable and plastic-free pyramid teabag into 250 ml of cold water and let it steep while your child is on the move. No boiling needed, no mess, and it’s ready within 10 minutes. For stronger flavour, simply leave it for longer. This is a healthy, sugar-free alternative to juices or sweetened drinks that often sneak into lunchboxes.

Why It Works:

  • Caffeine-free for all-day hydration without overstimulation
  • Rooibos supports immunity and digestion
  • The fruity flavour encourages children to drink more water
  • Apple Blueberry, Peachy Peach, and Berry Watermelon options are naturally sweetened with stevia, not sugar
  1. Post-Play Pick-Me-Up – Naturally Sweet Refreshment

Whether it’s after sports, a playdate or just running wild in the garden, Carmién’s Cold Brew Rooibos Teas provide a refreshing energy reset. Their natural ingredients help rehydrate and replenish essential minerals, keeping tummies calm after intense activity.

Perfect Pairing:

    • Peachy Peach is a top choice post-play. It contains rooibos, peach flavouring and a fruit base blend rich in antioxidants and natural vitamins.
    • The hydration boost is delicious, and nourishing without spiking sugar levels. 

Added Tip: Serve it over ice with slices of fresh fruit for a naturally flavoured, fun sports drink alternative.

  1. Afternoon Calm – A Gentle Transition from Chaos to Calm

Late afternoons can often be chaotic – tired kids, screen time cravings and parental burnout. This is the perfect time for a cool glass of Carmién Berry Watermelon. 

Why It’s Ideal:

It’s a sweet, naturally sugar-free treat that bridges the gap between lunch and dinner or helps wind things down before bath time.

  1. Family Hydration Station – Fun for All Ages

Don’t let the “kiddies” label fool you – these teas are a hit with adults too. Create a hydration station at home with infused pitchers of Cold Brew Rooibos, garnished with slices of citrus, fresh berries or mint. It’s a colourful and healthful centrepiece for picnics, braais, or Sunday lunches. 

Best for This Moment:

You’ll be hydrating the whole household with zero added sugar and maximum flavour.

Sustainable Packaging

Carmién’s commitment to sustainability shows through their industrially compostable and plastic free teabags, making each cup better for your child – and the planet.

The Top Benefits:

  • Naturally sugar-free.
  • Immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory, perfect for daily hydration without sugar.
  • High in minerals, naturally calming and supports digestive health.
  • Naturally sweetened with stevia, it eliminates the need for added sugar.
  • Rooibos supports immune health.
  • Apple and berry antioxidants boost overall wellbeing.
  • Ideal for hyperactive children needing a naturally calming drink.
  • Refreshing and hydrating, even when served without ice. 

Great For: 

  • All-day sipping, chilled tea jugs, or vitamin-rich refreshment for fussy eaters.
  • Lunchboxes, playdates, or school sports bottles.
  • Warm days, outdoor fun, or serving with crushed ice and peach slices.
Carmién’s Cold Brew Rooibos Teas
Carmién’s Cold Brew Rooibos Teas
Carmién’s Cold Brew Rooibos Teas

 

Final Thoughts

Carmién has transformed rooibos into more than just a warm cup of tea. Through their Cold Brew range, they’ve made it easier for families to prioritise health, hydration and taste in one effortless steep. Whether you want to stay hydrated on-the-go, sooth the gut, boost immunity, or simply replace sugar-packed drinks, there’s a Carmién Cold Brew Rooibos Tea for every part of the day.

Delicious, and 100% natural – it’s time to make every sip count. 

Carmién Kiddies Apple Blueberry Cold Brew Rooibos Tea

  • Ingredients: Organic Rooibos, apple, forest berry blend (with apple, elderberry fruit granules, hibiscus flowers, rosehip shells and blackberry), blueberry flavouring, apple pieces, and Stevia leaf.

Carmién Kiddies Peachy Peach Cold Brew Rooibos Tea

  • Ingredients: Organic Rooibos, fruit blend (with apple, hibiscus flowers, rosehip shells), peach flavouring, and Stevia leaf.

Carmién Kiddies Berry Watermelon Cold Brew Rooibos Tea

  • Ingredients: Organic Rooibos, forest berry blend (with apple, elderberry fruit granules, hibiscus flowers, rosehip shells and blackberry), watermelon flavouring, and Stevia leaf.

Join BYY on social media

Facebook Instagram Twitter Tiktok Youtube Pinterest Linkedin
0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Discover the transformative impact of aftercare programmes – these vital services extend beyond the school day, offering a safe haven and enriching activities for children
Pre-schoolers

5 benefits of aftercare programmes

by Antonella Dési, Lifestyle Expert and Writer
written by Antonella Dési, Lifestyle Expert and Writer

Discover the transformative impact of aftercare programmes – these vital services extend beyond the school day, offering a safe haven and enriching activities for children, writes Antonella Dési

Aftercare programmes are a vital part of the modern educational landscape, offering numerous benefits for children and families. These programmes, which typically operate after school hours, provide a range of activities and services designed to support children’s development, enhance their learning, and provide a safe and structured environment.

Read on for what Genevieve Allen, MD of one of South Africa’s leading providers of aftercare and holiday programmes, Club Engage, says about the value of aftercare for children and parents alike.

CHECK OUT: 8 back to school survival tips

  1. Supervision & safety 

One of the primary benefits of aftercare programmes is that they provide a safe and supervised environment for children after school. Many parents are unable to be at home when their children return from school due to work commitments.

Aftercare programmes offer a solution to this challenge by providing a place where children can go to be cared for and supervised by trained professionals. This supervision is crucial for ensuring that children are safe and protected during the afternoons when they are not in school.

Says Genevieve: “One of our main objectives at Club Engage is to support families and ensure that the kids we look after are happy and content when they are collected by their parents. This means offering them a safe environment and a structured routine that is familiar and flows easily. We ensure that the afternoons are fun and stimulating for our kids, but also provide them some much-needed decompression time. We foster a programme that is supervised, but no over-supervised – a place where they can unwind, and where free-play, creativity, and imagination are encouraged.”

  1. Academic support

Aftercare programmes should ensure that all homework is completed before the kids leave to go home. However, Genevieve provides a distinction between homework support and tutoring: “There is a difference between the two. Aftercare provides homework support, which entails ensuring that homework is completed. However, if a child needs extra lessons in a particular subject – that is tutoring and that is something completely different. At Club Engage, we can organise additional academic support in the form of external tutors who can be asked to come in and tutor kids on request.”

By providing a structured environment where children can focus on their schoolwork, aftercare programmes can help improve academic performance and build confidence in their abilities. “What’s more, is that since the homework is completed by the time the child goes home, the family can enjoy quality time together at the end of the day without having to worry about homework being done,” explains Genevieve.

  1. Socialisation & peer interaction

Another key benefit of aftercare programs is that they provide opportunities for children to socialise and interact with their peers in a structured setting. This can be especially important for children who may be shy or introverted, as it can help them develop social skills and build friendships. By participating in group activities and engaging with other children, they can learn important social skills such as communication, resilience, cooperation, teamwork, and conflict resolution.

Genevieve believes that age mixing is a critical benefit of aftercare programmes: “Unlike school classrooms, in an aftercare environment, there are kids of all different age groups and they all play together. Age mixing promotes social, emotional, and cognitive development. Younger children learn from older peers, gaining new skills and knowledge. Older children develop empathy and leadership skills by interacting with younger ones. Playing together teaches cooperation, communication, and problem-solving, essential for navigating relationships. It fosters a sense of community and inclusivity, breaking down barriers between age groups.”

VISIT: The Motherload- the invisible mental load of women

  1. Enrichment activities

Aftercare programmes should assist with children attending a variety of enrichment activities that can help them discover and develop new interests and talents. These activities can include sports, arts and crafts, music, dance, and more. By helping to expose children to a wide range of activities, aftercare programmes can help them explore their interests and develop new skills.

 “With working parents, it is often impossible to fetch and carry children all over the place to let them attend various extra mural activities at different times in the afternoon. A well-structured aftercare programme, however, will dovetail with the schools’ extramural programme to encourage kids to attend. For example, a child can come to aftercare straight after school, sign in with us, have a bite to eat, and then go and participate in their extra murals. This way, we know where the child is at all times, and that they are fed and taken care of,” says Genevieve.

  1. Convenience for parents

Finally, aftercare programmes offer a high level of convenience for parents. By providing a safe and supervised environment for their children after school, aftercare programmes allow parents to work or attend to other responsibilities with peace of mind. Genevieve elaborates: “Peace of mind is one of the biggest benefits of aftercare programmes for parents. It reassures them that their children are well taken care of, allowing them to focus on their work, and ensuring quality time when they are at home together. This can be especially important for single parents or families where both parents work outside the home. Aftercare programmes can also help reduce stress for parents by providing a reliable and consistent childcare option.”

What to look for:  

Genevieve shares some tips on what to look for when doing your due diligence and selecting an aftercare programme for your child:

  • Ask them to show you the daily programme, and to go through and explain it to you in detail.
  • Get to know who the staff are – ask about their background and their qualifications. On this note, Genevieve advises: “It is important to note that aftercare staff don’t necessarily have to be teachers. When I select staff, I focus more on the care element, and as such, my staff have backgrounds in a wide array of industries, from event management to PR, sporting professionals, and so on.”
  • Ask to see the Police Clearance Certificate and have it verified.
  • Ask to see the First Aid Certifications.
  • Find out about the aftercare programme’s Release Procedure so that you can rest assured your child is in safe hands.

ALSO READ: Why screening school staff is non-negotiable

Join BYY on social media

Facebook Instagram Twitter Tiktok Youtube Pinterest Linkedin
0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Baby Yum Yum - How much does the tooth fairy pay per tooth in South Africa
ParentingModern ParentingPre-schoolers

How much does the tooth fairy pay per tooth in South Africa?

by BabyYumYum
written by BabyYumYum
What is the current rate for the tooth fairy in South Africa? How much does she typically give for the first tooth? And what is considered an appropriate amount for each subsequent tooth lost? As kids excitedly lose their teeth, they often wonder how much treasure awaits them under their pillows, making this magical tradition even more special.

Parents from various households in South Africa share the diverse range of rewards bestowed by the tooth fairy, which can range from a small collection of R1 coins to crisp R100 banknotes. It truly amazes us to witness the dedication and generosity of the tooth fairy.

What is the tooth fairy?

When a child loses a tooth, they have the option to place it under their soft pillow or gently position it on their bedside table before they drift off to sleep. As the child peacefully slumbers, the magical tooth fairy silently makes her way into their room, her delicate wings fluttering with grace.

With a touch of enchantment, she retrieves the tiny tooth from its resting place, ensuring that the child’s precious memento is carefully collected. In exchange for the tooth, the tooth fairy leaves behind a delightful surprise as a token of her appreciation for the child’s bravery and resilience during this natural occurrence.

Baby Yum Yum - How much does the tooth fairy pay in South Africa
This can be in the form of a small gift, such as a miniature toy, a charming trinket, or even a shiny coin or a dollar bill. The tooth fairy’s offerings serve as a tangible symbol of encouragement and reward, reinforcing the child’s sense of accomplishment and providing them with a delightful keepsake to cherish.

How much does the tooth fairy pay in South Africa?

My 5-year-old has a tooth that’s about to fall out and she’s expecting the tooth fairy to pay R100! I think that’s a bit steep considering she still has more teeth that will fall out. Louise

  • But R50 for the first tooth. Shameegah
  • You could start at a low amount like R5 or R10 for the first tooth and tell them that the tooth fairy will increase the amount each time a tooth falls out so long as they are in good condition. Claire
  • R50 because that’s the price of one Hot Wheel. Ashni
  • How about putting together a new toothbrush, toothpaste, and an R20 note and wrapping it all together inside a new facecloth with a bow and a thank you letter from the tooth fairy? Melanie
  • I’m planning on paying R2 for the first tooth! Thobile
  • We regrettably fell into the trap of starting with R100 and now I’m down R400 in three months! Kgotso
  • I told my kids that the tooth fairy pays more if your teeth are white, you brush them twice a day and you’re a well-behaved child! Mercy
  • There are parents out there who don’t have a lot of money so I would say that the tooth fairy pays whatever you can afford at the time. I’m sure your kiddies will be happy with it. Danny
  • R20 per tooth – R100 is insanity. Kids don’t need that much money! Lisa
  • My son had a trip to our dentist recently and he had to pull out a tooth. My clever kid asked the dentist how much he reckons the tooth is worth. Well, our dentist did us a dirty and told my son it’s worth at least R100. So, Daddy had to pay up on the tooth fairy’s behalf. Melanie
  • Petrol is expensive guys. Pretty sure fairy dust has also gone up in price recently. Lebone
  • There is no rate. It’s what you can afford and what you feel comfortable giving. Don’t compare yourself with others as one day you might not be able to keep up. Vicky
  • My son lost his tooth on his birthday, and he received R100 but normally he gets R20 to 50 so we told him that was the tooth fairy’s way of saying ‘happy birthday’ to him. Lebohang
  • The first tooth was R30 then R10 after that. Monique
  • My brother told my nephew that the tooth fairy at their house only gives R50 but if you go to grandma’s house the tooth fairy gives you R200! Of course, we couldn’t let him down, so it’s been a very expensive journey. Karlene
  • My daughter told me she knows there’s no tooth fairy but if I still want to pay her for her teeth then I can. Roxi

Baby Yum Yum - Quick Look At The Going Rate For Tooth Fairy Payouts

TAKE A LOOK AT: Should Parents Lie About Santa and the Tooth Fairy?

FAQ’s on the tooth fairy in South Africa

What is the average amount the Tooth Fairy pays per tooth in South Africa? The amount the Tooth Fairy pays varies, but on average, children in South Africa receive between R1 and R100 per tooth, depending on family traditions and personal preferences.

Does the Tooth Fairy pay the same amount for each tooth? Not necessarily. The amount may vary depending on the significance of the tooth (such as the first tooth lost), the child’s age, or family customs.

Is there a standard amount the Tooth Fairy should pay in South Africa? There is no standard amount. The payment is entirely up to the parents and can range from a small token amount to a more generous reward, depending on what the family deems appropriate.

Has the amount the Tooth Fairy pays changed over time in South Africa? Yes, the amount has generally increased over time, reflecting inflation and changing societal norms. Parents may adjust the amount to keep up with what is perceived as a fair or fun amount for their children.

Do parents need to give money, or can the Tooth Fairy leave other gifts? The Tooth Fairy can leave other small gifts, such as toys, stickers, or books, instead of or in addition to money. This depends on what the parents think their child will enjoy.

Is it common for the Tooth Fairy to leave a note? Yes, some parents choose to leave a small note from the Tooth Fairy, congratulating the child on losing a tooth or encouraging good dental hygiene. This adds a personal touch to the tradition.

What if a child loses a tooth at school or outside the home? If a child loses a tooth at school or while away from home, the Tooth Fairy can still visit. Parents can explain that the Tooth Fairy has a magical way of knowing when a tooth is lost and will still leave a reward.

Does the Tooth Fairy visit every child in South Africa? While the Tooth Fairy is a popular tradition, not every family in South Africa follows this custom. Some families may have different traditions, or they might choose not to participate in the Tooth Fairy tradition at all.

Is there an age limit for the Tooth Fairy to visit? The Tooth Fairy typically visits children who are losing their baby teeth, usually between the ages of 5 and 12. Once all the baby teeth have been lost, the Tooth Fairy’s visits usually stop.

How can parents explain the Tooth Fairy to their children? Parents can explain the Tooth Fairy as a magical being who collects children’s lost teeth in exchange for a small reward. The story can be adapted to suit the family’s beliefs and cultural background.

What should parents do if the Tooth Fairy forgets to visit? If the Tooth Fairy forgets to visit, parents can reassure their child that sometimes the Tooth Fairy gets busy and might be delayed. The Tooth Fairy can then visit the next night with a special note or an extra treat to make up for the delay.

Is the Tooth Fairy tradition similar across different cultures in South Africa? While the Tooth Fairy is a common tradition, different cultures in South Africa might have their own unique customs related to losing baby teeth. Some may have different mythical figures or rituals that accompany the loss of a tooth.

ALO READ: Which toothbrush and toothpaste is best for your child?

Join BYY on social media

Facebook Instagram Twitter Tiktok Youtube Pinterest Linkedin
0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Baby Yum Yum - Is your child a fussy eater Our expert comes to your rescue
ExpertsToddler FeedingToddlers

Expert Is your child a fussy eater? Our expert comes to your rescue

by Kelly Ansley, registered dietitian
written by Kelly Ansley, registered dietitian

Fussy eating (also known as picky, choosy or faddy eating) is defined as an unwillingness to eat familiar foods or to try new foods, as well as having a strong food preferences. This often leaves a very anxious, distressed parent who’s concerned about poor nutrient intake and an inadequate diet for their little one. The frustration of mealtimes with a fussy eater can also result in parents “giving in”, which teaches many children the art of manipulation and to use food to control their parents.

The good news is that most toddlers outgrow fussy eating and end up eating a wide variety of nutritious foods. In the meantime, follow the tips below to help overcome some of your common frustrations with mealtimes.

“Studies have shown that we may need to offer the same food up to 10 times before a child accepts it, so continue to offer the foods they don’t like over again in different shapes and forms.”

What causes picky/fussy eating?

Several factors may contribute to fussy eating such as age, personality, gender, social influences, culture, willingness to try foods, parental practices, the pressure to eat, feeding styles and environment. The important thing to determine is whether fussy eating is a behaviour or if there’s perhaps a medical reason.

Typical medical reasons for not eating could be that your child is sick, anaemic, has reflux or swallowing difficulties – even constipation can result in fussy eating. It can generally be overcome but if you’re concerned that your child isn’t growing or is faltering from their growth curve then it’s best to chat to your paediatrician and consult with a registered dietitian.

Baby Yum Yum - What causes fussy eating

What should parents avoid doing?

Studies have shown that putting too much pressure on our children to eat certain foods can make the situation worse. Restricting certain foods also aggravates the situation and often children tend to want that restricted food even more. We should try not to make eating a negative experience by arguing or fighting, and nagging has also been shown to negatively affect appetite. We should also refrain from rewarding or bribing children with food and rather try as much as possible to teach our little ones to have a healthy relationship with food.

What are some tips or tricks to overcome fussy or picky eating?

  • The first rule is to continue to offer your child a wide variety of healthy foods (including the ones they don’t like). Try and make the food interesting and appealing with lots of variety in colour.
  • Studies have shown that we may need to offer the same food up to 10 times before a child accepts it, so continue to offer the foods they don’t like over again in different shapes and forms. It also helps to pair foods that they don’t like with ones that they do.
  • Stick to family foods. Offer your child the same food that the rest of the family is eating and avoid preparing different foods just for your child. Parents should set a good example of eating healthy foods without making a big deal about the foods they don’t like.
Baby Yum Yum - What are some tips or tricks to overcome fussy or picky eating

Baby Yum Yum – What are some tips or tricks to overcome fussy or picky eating

  • Remove distractions at mealtimes (television, iPads, games) and try and eat meals at the table as a family so that children learn by example and establish healthy eating habits. Mealtimes should be calm and positive and can present an opportunity for children to learn about food.
  • Involve your children in food preparation and mealtimes. This can be something as simple as helping to lay the table for dinner or helping with the preparation of food (under supervision). It often sparks an interest in eating food if they have taken part in the preparation of it.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: Age-appropriate kitchen tasks and chores for children

  • Engage in fun activities that include food. Teach your children about food through baking, cooking, grocery shopping or fun activities such as icing biscuits, for example.
  • Try messy play. Messy play involves using food to teach little ones to be comfortable with touching new and interesting textures. Often some of the food ends up in their mouth too. Examples: jelly, mashed potato, custard, coloured spaghetti, coloured rice or edible playdough.
  • Finger foods: Depending on your child’s age, finger foods may give smaller babies a sense of independence compared to being fed with a spoon.

Baby Yum Yum - Is your child a fussy eater

  • Limit drinks/liquid before or with meals. Too much liquid before or with a meal can fill up little tummies and result in them eating less food. Soft drinks and fruit juices should also be avoided for health reasons but also because they can affect appetite.
  • Give your child the power of choice. For example, allow them to choose between two different fruits or one of two different vegetable options. This gives them a sense of self-control and independence.
  • Have a routine in place. Have set mealtimes and snacks to set the scene and allow your child to feel secure and know what to expect.

KEEP THE KIDS BUSY: Bake and decorate bedazzled biscuits with the kids

  • The most important advice is not to substitute and offer other foods when your child refuses a meal. Rather wait until the next mealtime to offer something else. When we bring out different options at the same meal the child will learn this behaviour and it will encourage them to be picky.
  • Re-enforce good behaviour. Praise your child when they finish their food – but don’t reward with unhealthy foods!

Most importantly, stay calm and collected around food and mealtimes as children can pick up on your energy. You’ve got this, mommy!

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Understanding Gastroenteritis (Gastro) in Children
Children's HealthBabiesBaby HealthExpertsPre-schoolersToddler HealthToddlers

Expert Understanding Gastroenteritis (Gastro) in Children

by Dr Lana Marcus, general practitioner
written by Dr Lana Marcus, general practitioner

If your child has ever had sudden vomiting or diarrhoea, you’ve likely heard the term—what’s all the fuss about gastroenteritis (gastro)? It might sound dramatic, but gastro is more than just a tummy bug. For little ones especially, it can escalate quickly and leave parents feeling anxious and helpless. Here’s what you really need to know to manage it safely and confidently. Written by Dr Lana Marcus, general practitioner.

As I write this, we have just survived both boys having had gastroenteritis in close succession. Sleep deprivation – something I thought had disappeared with their infant days – was a stark reality and washing machines running at midnight became the new norm.

Telling my five-year-old that he had to sleep in a nappy to catch any accidents even though “mommy knows you’re not a baby” was a little heart-breaking. But barring a few days of discomfort, a house that smelt most unwelcoming and several days of missed school, we came off pretty lightly.

Unfortunately, gastroenteritis does not always have favourable outcomes. According to the CDC, worldwide diarrhoeal diseases are a leading cause of paediatric morbidity and mortality, with 1.5 billion episodes and 1.5 to 2.5 million deaths estimated to occur annually among children under five years.

A measurable decrease has been observed with the development of the rotavirus vaccine, which is currently part of our vaccination schedule.

What is gastroenteritis?

Gastroenteritis (gastro) is an inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, i.e. the stomach and intestines. Symptoms may include diarrhoea, vomiting and abdominal pain/cramping. Fever, lack of energy and dehydration may also occur.

Statistically, it is most usually viral, although patients who have recently been travelling or are immunocompromised may be more likely to have picked up bacteria, parasites or fungal infections. Eating improperly prepared food, drinking contaminated water or close contact with a person who is infected can spread the disease.

“The single most effective way to prevent the spread of viral gastroenteritis is frequent, thorough hand-washing with soap and water.”

How diarrhoea is diagnosed

Patients often announce at the beginning of the consult: “I don’t know if I ate something funny or if I picked up an infection somewhere…” Truth be told, it’s really not important. The symptoms are identical and the treatment plan would be the same, too.

In instances of mass outbreaks with contaminated foodstuffs, stool testing would be warranted. Similarly, in a patient who has recently travelled or is presenting with bloody stools, testing is indicated.

Should you run to the doctor at the first sign of diarrhoea or vomiting in your little one?

The answer is generally no. Gastroenteritis is usually an acute and self-limiting disease that does not require medication. There are certain products we can use to attenuate symptoms such as antiemetics (drugs to reduce nausea and vomiting), antispasmodics (for cramping) and mucosal protective agents. Specific products and their doses depend on the age and size of the child, so it is best to ask a healthcare professional.

Two good items to have in your “gastroenteritis kit” are rehydration solution and probiotics. The most important treatment for your child with gastroenteritis is replacing fluid. They must drink small amounts at frequent intervals.

When should I take my child to the doctor?

The biggest risk with gastroenteritis is dehydration, and moderate to severe dehydration certainly warrants a trip to your doctor or emergency room. A degree of mild dehydration is to be expected and can be carefully watched.

Signs of mild dehydration include:

Thirst, child is alert, moist mucous membranes (look inside mouth), cries tears, normal breathing and heart rate, decreased urine output (but still passing urine).

Signs of severe dehydration include:

If your child is lethargic, has dry mucous membranes, decreased tears, a thready fast pulse, sunken eyes and fontanelles (soft spot), or reduced skin turgor you must get medical attention. Parents should also be far more cautious with small babies, since their reserves are much lower and they tend to deteriorate far quicker.

If your child is experiencing large fluid volume losses through diarrhoea and/or vomiting and you are unable to replace those losses with oral fluids, a drip may be necessary in order to replace those fluids bypassing the gastrointestinal tract.

Can gastro be prevented?

The single most effective way to prevent the spread of viral gastroenteritis is frequent, thorough hand-washing with soap and water. Always wash your hands after using the toilet and changing diapers and before eating, preparing, or handling food.

Alcohol-based hand sanitisers can be used in addition to hand-washing, but not as a substitute. Good hygiene for contaminated surfaces and bedding/clothing is also important.

When is it safe to take a child back to school?

Your child needs to not have had a single episode of diarrhoea, vomiting or fever for at least 24 hours. Some guidelines recommend waiting even 48 hours. They also need to be back to their old selves when it comes to energy, and eating and drinking happily and comfortably.

baby yum yum - parenting tips

ALSO READ

How to Make Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) at Home

Childhood Illnesses Glossary: Over 100 Essential Terms and Definitions

BabyYumYum FAQs: Understanding Gastroenteritis (Gastro) in Children

What causes gastro in children?

It is usually caused by viruses (such as rotavirus or norovirus), but can also be due to bacteria or, less commonly, parasites. It spreads easily through contact with contaminated food, water, or surfaces.

What are the symptoms of gastro in children?

Common symptoms include watery diarrhoea, vomiting, stomach pain, fever, tiredness, and loss of appetite. Symptoms usually begin suddenly and can last a few days.

Is gastroenteritis dangerous for children?

Most cases are mild and clear up within a few days, but gastro can lead to dehydration, especially in young children. Severe or prolonged cases may require medical attention.

How is gastro treated?

There is no specific cure for viral gastro. Treatment focuses on rest and keeping your child hydrated with small, frequent sips of water or oral rehydration solution. Avoid giving sugary drinks or undiluted juice.

Should I give my child food while they have gastro?

Yes, once vomiting settles, offer bland, easy-to-digest foods like toast, banana, rice, or plain crackers. Don’t force food—let your child eat when they’re ready.

How can I prevent the spread of gastro?

Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially after nappy changes or using the toilet. Keep your child home from school or crèche for at least 48 hours after the last episode of vomiting or diarrhoea.

Can gastro be prevented with vaccines?

Yes, the rotavirus vaccine helps protect against one of the most common causes of viral gastro in young children. It is part of the routine immunisation schedule in many countries.

How long does gastro usually last in children?

Symptoms typically last between 1 to 3 days, but mild diarrhoea may continue for a few more days. Recovery times vary depending on the cause and severity.

Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and should not replace medical advice. Always consult your GP or paediatrician if you have concerns about your child’s health, especially if symptoms worsen or do not improve.

Join BYY on social media

Facebook Instagram Twitter Tiktok Youtube Pinterest Linkedin
0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Newer Posts
Older Posts
Check your BabyYumYum Membership