10 Things Moms Need to be Prepared for the Cold and Flu Season

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I think most people would agree that being a busy mom is a tough enough job as it is, and it takes a wonder woman to make it through the cold and flu season every year while still keeping up and being on the go.

Even though my kids are pretty healthy and we can normally trudge through minor sniffles, there is usually at least once a season that a cold, or even the flu, gets us down, and the little ones just need to stay at home to recover and get well.

Here are 10 things that I always keep on hand and think that every mom needs to have standing by during the cold and flu season:

• Kleenex : I don't know what we would do without plenty of Kleenex tissues nearby. They are gentle on tender noses and come in handy strategically placed in every room! I always stock up at the beginning of fall so that we always have enough on hand. Right now if you head over to Target you can get a $1.00 off of a 4 pack of Kleenex if you use the coupon HERE.

•  A thermometer. Most of the time the kids will just need a day or two of rest and they'll bounce back. But sometimes with the flu that nasty fever will hit, and its important to monitor it and make sure it doesn't get too high.

•  Electrolyte drinks. Electrolyte drinks are very important to have on hand, especially if your kids are having any vomiting or diarrhea. Monitoring temperature and encouraging fluids are super important!

•  A humidifier. Sometimes, its just an upper respiratory infection going on, and a humidifier can help de-congest and aide in comfort while breathing, thus creating a better nights sleep for your child, and you. Sleep is very important when you are sick because your body needs rest to heal!

•  Books. No matter what kind of sickness your kid has come down with, a new book to read is something that will keep them occupied. Try and have one stashed away that is a special book or buy them a new one to help keep them entertained.

•  Tea with honey. Wonderful for sore throats, and if your kids are too young to appreciate the flavor (and the health benefits) of tea, keep it for you and sip on some to sooth your tired body.

• Throat Lozenges. If your kids have a sore or itchy throat, having throat lozenges on hand is a wonderful lifesaver. Word from the wise with kids, none of mine will touch the ones with menthol, so you might have to opt for the non-menthol vitamin C ones.

•  An activity box. Keep a little box or container with simple and quiet activities that sick kids can do while lying on the couch. Fill it with crossword puzzles and coloring books with crayons. Perhaps little toys other activity books to keep them occupied in between periods of resting.

•  A simple soup recipe. Chicken noodle, Chicken broth, Chicken and rice...you need a light go to meal recipe to keep everyone fed. If you don't have one you can check out our family's HERE.

• Patience. It's exhausting having sick children, and its even worse when you are sick too. I've learned that if I start to get short tempered or crabby, I'll take 5 minutes to myself and literally lock myself in the bathroom to regroup. It helps - believe me.

Raising a family is one of the toughest jobs in the world out there when they aren't sick, just always remember that you are appreciated.

Your love makes a difference.

~Melissa