As a parent, there’s nothing quite as heartbreaking as seeing your child in pain. Sore throats are a common childhood ailment, but they can make your little one feel downright miserable.

Fortunately, there are plenty of remedies you can try at home to alleviate your child’s discomfort. Here are 10 of the best:.

1. Sip On Warm Tea

Warm liquids can help soothe a sore throat and ease congestion. Try brewing a cup of honey-sweetened tea for your child and encouraging them to sip on it throughout the day.

The steam from the tea may also help to clear the nasal passages, which can make breathing easier.

2. Use Honey

Raw honey has natural antibacterial properties and can be an effective remedy for sore throats. You can add it to your child’s tea or simply give them a spoonful to swallow.

Children under one year of age should not consume honey due to the risk of botulism.

3. Try Salt Water Gargles

A salt water gargle can help to reduce inflammation and ease pain in the throat. Mix half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and have your child gargle with it for 30 seconds before spitting it out.

Avoid giving salt water gargles to young children who may not be able to gargle properly.

4. Use a Humidifier

Dry air can make a sore throat feel worse, so using a humidifier can help to add moisture to the air your child is breathing in. This can help to ease congestion and soothe the throat.

Be sure to clean the humidifier regularly to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria.

5. Rest

Rest is important when your child is sick as it allows their body to focus on healing. Encourage your child to rest as much as possible and make sure they are getting enough sleep. This can also prevent the spread of germs to others.

6. Take Over-the-Counter Medications

If your child is in a lot of pain, over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help. These medications can also reduce fever and make your child feel more comfortable.

Be sure to follow the dosing instructions carefully and check with your child’s healthcare provider before giving any medication.

7. Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of fluids can help to hydrate the body and soothe a sore throat. Encourage your child to drink water, juice, or soup throughout the day.

Avoid giving caffeinated beverages or sugary drinks as these can dehydrate the body and exacerbate symptoms.

8. Use Throat Lozenges

Throat lozenges can help to temporarily relieve pain and scratchiness in the throat. Look for lozenges that contain menthol or eucalyptus as these can help to clear congestion too. Avoid giving throat lozenges to young children who may choke on them.

9. Elevate the Head

Elevating your child’s head while they sleep can help to prevent mucus from pooling in the back of the throat and making symptoms worse. You can prop up a pillow or two under their head to achieve this.

10. Seek Medical Attention

If your child’s sore throat lasts more than a week, is severe, or is accompanied by other symptoms like rash, difficulty breathing, or drooling, seek medical attention right away.

Your child’s healthcare provider can help determine the underlying cause of the sore throat and recommend appropriate treatment.

Helping your child through a sore throat can be stressful, but there are plenty of remedies you can try at home. By using these tips and tricks, your child can find relief and get back to feeling their best.