Tips To Keep Toddlers Safe And Healthy When Air Quality Drops

Tips To Keep Toddlers Safe And Healthy When Air Quality Drops

Every time our children breathe, they should be gaining energy and enjoying their lives. However, the air around us can sometimes be harmful. Air pollution is a global concern and a serious health crisis across all age groups. It is especially worrying for toddlers because their lungs are still developing and they breathe faster than adults, making them more susceptible to infections. While we cannot control the outdoor environment entirely, a few thoughtful everyday choices can keep toddlers safe, comfortable and cheerful even during high-pollution days.

Dr Pavan Yadav, Director & Sr. Consultant, Interventional Pulmonology, Lung Transplantation & Sleep Medicine, KIMS Hospitals (Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences), Bengaluru, shares all you need to know:

Avoid stepping out during high AQI

Toddlers should avoid outdoor play on high AQI days. Early mornings may appear pleasant, but this is when smoke and dust settle closer to the ground. Mid-day or early afternoon—when sunlight helps disperse smog tends to be relatively safer, though checking AQI apps before stepping out is always advisable.

Set up air purifiers

It is advisable to use air purifiers at home. Purifiers with HEPA filters, if available, can significantly reduce dust and smoke particles indoors. Keeping windows closed during bad pollution days and doing a quick damp-dusting of floors and furniture helps reduce indoor dust. Avoid sources of second-hand smoke such as scented candles, mosquito coils, incense sticks and strong cleaning sprays. These steps help maintain the cleanest indoor air possible.

Healthy lifestyle

Adequate hydration and nutrition play an important role. Giving toddlers plenty of water, seasonal fruits, home-cooked meals and age-appropriate dry fruits helps support their immunity.

Vaccination

Ensure your child's vaccinations are up to date, as recommended by your paediatrician.

Limit high-intensity activities

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Avoid high-intensity activities during poor air quality days. When parks are off-limits, parents can create engaging indoor options, simple dance sessions, soft ball games or light indoor exercises to keep toddlers active without exposing them to polluted air. If the child experiences irritation due to dust or dryness, room steaming or simple saline nasal drops (as advised by a doctor) may help.

Parents should watch out for signs such as persistent cough, noisy breathing, disturbed sleep or reduced energy levels. These could indicate that pollution is affecting the child, and timely medical attention can help prevent complications.

Source: News18
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