Healthy Holidays: A Pediatrician’s Tips for Avoiding Illness
- Dr. Ashley Loboda
- Dec 22, 2025
- 2 min read
The holidays are a time for joy, family gatherings, travel, and traditions we look forward to all year long. Unfortunately, they’re also a peak season for colds, flu, RSV, stomach bugs, and other infections—especially for children. As a pediatrician, I’m often asked how families can enjoy the holidays while minimizing the risk of illness. The good news? A few simple, consistent habits can make a big difference.
1. Handwashing Still Matters (A Lot!)
Handwashing remains one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of illness. Encourage children to wash their hands:
Before eating
After using the bathroom
After coughing, sneezing, or blowing their nose
After returning home from school, parties, or stores
Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds. When soap and water aren’t available, hand sanitizer is a helpful backup—but not a replacement.
2. Stay Up to Date on Vaccines
The holiday season overlaps with peak flu and COVID activity. Staying up to date on recommended vaccines helps protect not only your child, but also grandparents, newborns, and family members with medical vulnerabilities. If you’re unsure whether your child is due for a vaccine, check in with your pediatrician.
3. Don’t Share Germs Along With Treats
It’s tempting to share everything during the holidays—but cups, utensils, and water bottles should not be among them. Label children’s cups at gatherings and gently remind them to use their own.
4. Balance Fun With Rest
Late nights, travel, and busy schedules can wear kids down. Lack of sleep weakens the immune system, making children more susceptible to illness. Try to:
Keep bedtime routines as consistent as possible
Schedule downtime between events
Watch for signs of overtiredness, especially in younger children
5. Feed Their Immune System
Holiday treats are part of the fun—and they’re okay in moderation. Aim to balance sweets with immune-supporting foods like fruits, vegetables, protein, and whole grains. Staying well-hydrated is equally important, especially when traveling.
6. Teach “Cough Etiquette”
Remind children to cough or sneeze into their elbow, not their hands. This simple habit helps reduce the spread of respiratory viruses—especially in group settings.
7. Know When to Stay Home
If your child has a fever, vomiting, diarrhea, or is clearly not feeling well, it’s okay (and responsible) to skip gatherings. Staying home helps your child recover faster and protects others from getting sick.
8. Travel Smart
When traveling:
Pack hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes
Encourage handwashing after security checkpoints and before eating
Bring healthy snacks and water
Consider masks in crowded indoor spaces if illness is circulating heavily
Perfection isn’t the goal—healthy habits are. Even small steps can significantly reduce illness and help your family enjoy the holidays with fewer sick days and more meaningful moments together.
If you have questions about illness prevention, vaccines, or whether your child is safe to attend a holiday event, your pediatrician is always happy to help.
Wishing you a happy, healthy holiday season!
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