Why Kids Get Sick Often
Toddler Getting Sick Often: What Ontario Parents Need to Know
Your toddler seems to catch everything going around, and you're wondering if something's wrong with their immune system. Here's the reassuring truth: frequent illness in toddlers is completely normal and actually shows their immune system is working hard to learn and grow stronger.
What's going on?
Toddlers get sick a lot because their immune systems are still developing. Think of it like training for a big game. Every time your little one encounters a new virus or bacteria, their immune system learns how to fight it off. This process takes time and lots of practice.
Young children can catch 8 to 12 colds per year, plus other illnesses like stomach bugs or ear infections. That might sound like a lot, but it's actually completely typical. Their immune systems are meeting hundreds of new germs for the first time, especially if they're in daycare or around other kids regularly.
Most toddlers start to get sick less often as they get older. By the time they're school age, they've built up immunity to many common bugs and won't catch everything that goes around.
What you might notice
- Runny nose that seems to never go away
- Cough that lingers for weeks
- Low fever that comes and goes
- Fussiness or changes in appetite
- Getting better, then catching something new right away
- Siblings or daycare friends getting the same illnesses
What helps at home
Focus on supporting your toddler's natural defenses rather than worrying about their immune system. Good nutrition helps a lot, so offer plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole foods when they're feeling well. Don't stress if they're picky eaters during illness though.
Sleep is huge for immune function. Toddlers need 11 to 14 hours per day, including naps. Stick to consistent bedtimes even when they're under the weather.
Hand washing makes a real difference. Teach your toddler to wash their hands regularly, especially before meals and after playing. Make it fun with songs or special soap they like.
Keep up with their regular checkups and vaccines. Immunizations protect against serious illnesses and help their immune system focus on fighting off minor bugs.
When to worry
Head to the emergency room if your toddler has trouble breathing, signs of dehydration, a fever over 40°C (104°F), or seems unusually lethargic and won't respond to you normally.
Call your doctor or text Arlo if illnesses seem unusually severe, last much longer than expected, or if you notice your child isn't growing or gaining weight normally. Very rarely, frequent infections can signal an immune system problem, but your healthcare provider can help determine if further testing is needed.
The takeaway
Your toddler's frequent sniffles and fevers are likely just their immune system doing its job. You're doing great by watching out for them and seeking reassurance when you need it.
You can always text Arlo and talk to a provider in 5 minutes!
References - [Common infections in children](https://caringforkids.cps.ca/handouts/health-conditions-and-treatments/commoninfectionsinchildren)
- [Your child's immune system](https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/article?contentid=1923&language=english)
- [When your child has a cold](https://caringforkids.cps.ca/handouts/health-conditions-and-treatments/coldsin_children)