The new school year brings excitement, fresh routines, and a lot of mixing between children, which as many parents know, often means the first round of coughs, colds, and sniffles too. When kids come together in classrooms, they’re not only sharing pencils and stories but also germs. This makes autumn the perfect storm for those seasonal bugs to start circulating.
A few runny noses are normal and even an important part of how children’s immune systems learn and grow. But there are plenty of ways we can support their resilience so that when bugs do appear, they bounce back more quickly and with less disruption.
Why kids pick up so many bugs
Children tend to pick up so many bugs at school because they spend their days in close contact with others, sharing classrooms, surfaces, and playtime activities where germs can easily spread. The seasonal shift into autumn also plays a role, as shorter days mean less sunlight and lower vitamin D levels, which can affect immune function. On top of this, busy schedules filled with early mornings, after-school clubs, and less rest can leave children more vulnerable, making it easier for coughs and colds to take hold.
Everyday habits that strengthen immunity
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Nutritious food: Colourful fruits and vegetables are full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help the immune system work well.
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Sleep & rest: A well-rested child copes better with germs. Try to keep bedtimes consistent.
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Hydration: Water and warm herbal teas keep mucous membranes moist – one of the body’s first lines of defence.
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Hand washing: Simple but powerful, especially before eating and after playtime.
Herbal allies for children’s health
Nature gives us gentle, supportive remedies that families have used for generations. Some favourites include:
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Elderberry: A delicious, antioxidant-rich berry often made into syrup to shorten colds and ease flu-like symptoms.
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Echinacea: Traditionally used to help the immune system respond more effectively to infections.
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Thyme: Wonderful as a soothing tea for coughs, with gentle antimicrobial properties.
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Astragalus: A classic immune tonic in herbal traditions, supporting long-term resilience.
These herbs can be used in syrups, teas, or tinctures, depending on the child’s age and needs.
When bugs arrive anyway…
It’s impossible to avoid every cough and cold and that’s okay. The goal isn’t to wrap children in cotton wool but to make sure their immune system is strong enough to cope. With good foundations (sleep, nutrition, hydration) and a little herbal support, most children recover quickly and come out stronger.
Herbal medicine works best when it’s tailored to the individual. If you’d like advice on which remedies might suit your family this winter, feel free to reach out – I’d love to help you explore safe, natural options that fit your child’s needs.