One of the inescapable parts of being a parent is taking care of your toddler while they are sick. While this is a difficult job under any circumstances, there are steps you can take to ensure that your toddler received the best care they can, and will recover quickly.

The most important step is remaining calm. Any child can pick up on when their parent is worried or frantic, and this will upset the child in turn. To avoid that, retain control of your emotions.

Make sure that there is always someone at home with you sick child. If at all possible, have it be a parent - yourself or your partner. If this isn't possible, have a friend, relative, or paid sitter stay with them. Ensure that they understand the illness your child has, and what they must do about it.

Try to soothe your child as much as possible. Give them a long hot bath, or anything to help distract them from how sick they feel. You may want to consider allowing your child to sleep in your bed at night, as this will comfort them as well.

Allowing your child to sleep in your bed at night will also be beneficial for your state of mind. When your child is sick, you will most likely be worrying about them all night regardless. If your child is in your bed, it will be a lot easier for you to check up on their symptoms. As well, if they are in pain, it will be easier for them to tell you.

Keep your child as comfortable as possible by leaving them alone - don't badger them or always check up on them, as they are already uncomfortable as it is. Keep this in mind when you need to take their temperature - try to find a thermometer that is as hands off as possible, such as one that allows you to measure their temperature from their ear.

Allow your child to do something special while they are sick. While their energy will likely be down, and they will not be able to go anywhere, you can pay attention to them as much as possible, read them their favourite story, or allow them to watch television. Fix them a healthy snack that they might enjoy, as well.

In spite of all your efforts, it may be necessary to take your child to the doctor if they do not improve. Try to ease your child's mind as much as possible before taking them to the doctors by telling them that they doctor will be sure to help.