Holiday Health Tips for Kids

How to Avoid ER Visits During the Break

The holidays bring excitement, family gatherings, and travel. They can also bring germs, changes in routine, and the occasional fever or illness at the worst possible time.

At Little Big Care, we help families enjoy a safer, healthier season. Here are a few practical tips to keep your kids well and know when to call for help.


Keep Routines as Normal as Possible

Kids thrive on routine. Late nights, skipped naps, and dietary changes can weaken their immune systems and make them more prone to illness.

Try to keep regular sleep and meal times, even when traveling or entertaining guests. Bring familiar snacks, comfort items, and any daily medications so your child stays on track.


Pack a Simple Travel Health Kit

Whether you are driving to Grandma’s house or flying across the country, a few basic supplies can make a big difference:

  • Digital thermometer

  • Children’s pain and fever medicine (acetaminophen or ibuprofen)

  • Saline spray and bulb syringe for congestion

  • Adhesive bandages and small first-aid supplies

  • Hand sanitizer and wipes

  • Your pediatrician’s contact information

If your child gets sick while visiting Colorado Springs, Little Big Care can come to your home, hotel, or rental to provide pediatric urgent care without the hassle of finding a local clinic.


Know When to Choose the ER Instead

ER is more appropriate for: severe injury, obvious broken bone or large wound, difficulty breathing (respiratory distress), severe abdominal pain, immediate need for imaging or bloodwork, fever in a newborn, suicidal or acute psychiatric crisis.

If you have an emergency, call 911.

Little Big Care is designed for non-emergency pediatric needs. We will always recommend the ER if that is the safest option for your child.


Prevent Illness Before It Starts

A few small habits can make the holidays healthier for everyone:

  • Encourage kids to wash their hands before meals and after playing

  • Keep hand sanitizer in the car and on the dining table

  • Make sure children are drinking enough water, especially when traveling

  • Get the seasonal flu shot and any other recommended vaccines

  • Keep tissues and wipes nearby for coughs and sneezes

  • Avoid sharing drinks or utensils at family meals

If another family member is sick, encourage them to rest and limit close contact with children.


Travel Safely with Young Kids

If you are flying or driving long distances:

  • Schedule breaks for snacks and stretching

  • Keep your child’s medications in your carry-on bag

  • Dress in layers to adjust to changing temperatures

  • Wipe down airplane seats, tray tables, and car door handles

  • Bring a refillable water bottle to help prevent dehydration

Little Big Care can come directly to your hotel or rental to provide safe, pediatric-specific care if your child becomes ill while traveling in or around Colorado Springs.


Enjoy the Season with Confidence

Holidays can be unpredictable, but knowing help is nearby brings peace of mind. Little Big Care offers same-day visits, telehealth appointments, and pediatric-trained providers who understand how to care for children of all ages.

Book a Visit Today or call (719) 435-9979 for pediatric urgent care in your home, office, or hotel.

Emergency Reminder: ER is more appropriate for severe injury, obvious broken bone or large wound, difficulty breathing (respiratory distress), severe abdominal pain, immediate need for imaging or bloodwork, fever in a newborn, suicidal or acute psychiatric crisis. If you have an emergency, call 911.


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