Hello Family!
Welcome back to the channel and the blog. If you’re a mom, dad, first-time parent, or even a loving caregiver, today’s post is for you. I recently sat down with the amazing Dr. Daniel Tumwine, a pediatrician with nearly two decades of experience, to talk about the health mistakes we parents make and how to avoid them.
Grab your tea, get comfy, and let’s dive into the truths every parent needs to know about caring for our little ones!
1. It’s Okay for Kids to Get Sick, Really!
As a mom of three, I know the panic that sets in when your child gets a cough or fever. But Dr. Tumwine reassured us: most childhood illnesses are normal and self-limiting. Kids under five can get 5-6 colds or flus a year, and that’s actually a good thing! It’s how their immune systems learn and get stronger.
“A child who doesn’t get sick at all may actually have a problem. Getting sick is the immune system’s way of learning,” Dr. Tumwine explained.
So, next time your little one catches a bug, take a deep breath. Monitor, comfort, and let their body do its work.
2. Hands Off, Eyes On.
Dr. Tumwine calls pediatricians “monitoring and evaluation officers.” Most of our job as parents is to watch, wait, and reassure. Over-intervening while rushing to medicate a slight cough or fever can do more harm than good.
He shared that 70–80% of pediatric visits are for reassurance, not serious illness. So, mama, you’re not alone if you’re worried. But sometimes, less is more.
3. Fever Isn’t the Enemy.
This one surprised me! Fever is actually a sign that your child’s immune system is working. Unless it’s very high or your child is unusually lethargic, you don’t have to panic.
“In most cases, you don’t need to treat a mild fever. It’s the body fighting off infection.” Of course, always watch for warning signs (like difficulty breathing or persistent high fever), but don’t fear every temperature spike.
4. Say No to Cough Syrups and Unnecessary Meds.
Here’s a biggie: Cough and flu syrups can be more dangerous than the illness itself, especially in children under two. Many contain depressants or alcohol-like substances. Dr. Tumwine told me, “Cough syrup is basically a depressant, it doesn’t cure the illness and can actually harm your child.” And antibiotics? Only for bacterial infections. Most fevers and coughs in kids are viral, so antibiotics won’t help.
5. Breastfeeding Is Best And Cow’s Milk Can Wait.
When it comes to feeding, Breast Milk is best, especially in the first year. Formula is a good alternative if you can’t breastfeed, but cow’s milk should wait until after your baby turns at least one. Early introduction can cause digestive issues and allergies.
6. Vaccines Save Lives, Don’t Delay!
Vaccines are one of the hottest topics in every mom group I know. Dr. Tumwine didn’t mince words: Vaccines save lives. He shared that, in his early days as a doctor, children’s wards were filled with measles and meningitis cases. Thanks to vaccines, those wards are now empty.
He also addressed the rise in vaccine hesitancy, especially among parents of second or third children. It’s easy to get swept up in online debates, but the evidence is clear: Vaccines protect not just our kids, but entire communities.
7. Be Careful with Home Remedies
I know we all love our cultural traditions, we mostly grew up on herbs but we have been warned that some home remedies can be harmful. Always check with your pediatrician before trying anything new.
8. When to Worry
So, when should you call the doctor? Dr. Tumwine says to watch for:
-Rapid or labored breathing (not just after crying or running)
-Unusual lethargy or unresponsiveness
-Persistent high fever that doesn’t come down with basic care
If you see these, seek help right away.
Trust Your Instincts And Your Pediatrician
One of my favorite takeaways from this conversation? If you’re worried, that’s a red flag worth listening to. Don’t diagnose or dismiss your concerns alone, reach out to your pediatrician. “As a pediatrician, I’m a monitor and evaluation officer. My job is to guide, reassure, and step in only when needed.” Dr. Tumwine stated.
Final Thoughts: You’re Doing Better Than You Think
If you’ve read this far, I hope you feel a little lighter and a lot more empowered. Parenting is a journey of questions, doubts, and small victories. Every child is unique, and so is every family’s story. Whether you’re celebrating a first step, worrying about a yellow tinge, or debating the next vaccine, remember: You’re not alone. Focus on love, good nutrition, timely vaccines, and a calm, watchful eye.
Let’s raise healthy, happy children—without panic. You’ve got this.
If you love what you’ve read, check out these YouTube videos for more insights and real talk with Dr. Daniel Tumwine:
Health Mistakes that we make that Affect our children
Part 2: Health Mistakes that we make that Affect our children
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