Often times, we look at active ways to prevent and treat common ailments. But sometimes being inactive is the best medicine. At Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, we encourage children and adults alike to “take the day off” if they are not feeling well. Getting proper rest is an important part of getting and staying healthy.  

Our bodies need rest to heal – it’s the natural way to recharge our batteries so we can tackle another day. Adults should get seven to eight hours of sleep. Children, on the other hand, require many more; it varies by age. And if a child is suffering from a simple virus or an energy-zapping flu, he or she needs even more rest just to get better.

If your child is not feeling well, keep him or her home. Not only should you keep your child from school or daycare – where they can put others at risk – keep them out of public places such as the grocery store and restaurants.

Be sure your child rests. Even simple activities drain energy from a little body, significantly prolonging an illness. Keep your child in a clean, comfortable, well-ventilated room. Make sure he or she has plenty of fluids and nutritious snacks throughout the day. This will allow your child’s body to refuel and recharge. And encourage your child to take a nap or two. Explain that without rest, he or she may stay ill even longer. He or she could miss that fun birthday party or the big game on Friday night.

Even when your child is not ill, make sure he or she always gets plenty of rest to remain healthy. A well-rested body can fight off illness better than one that’s exhausted.

The final point to remember is that children learn good behavior from their caregivers. If you are not feeling well, apply the same rules to yourself as you would to your child. Stay home, rest and set your mind to recovering.