With the amount of germs and viruses that the average child is exposed to at school and other activities, it's almost inevitable that at some point they're going to get sick. That's when you, as the parent, can make a big difference to how fast they get back on their feet. This is especially the case with small children. Maybe you can't stop them getting sick, but you can help them get better, faster.

Firstly, if you've been to the doctor and received some sort of prescription, make sure your child takes it! Medical treatment is useless if it's not followed. Having said that, it's possible to over medicate as well, so if the doctor says there's nothing that can be prescribed to help - accept that. Viruses, in particular, don't respond to antibiotics, and it's a waste of time taking them. Sometimes, though, an antibiotic may be useful in clearing up some of the virus symptoms. But again, listen to what the medical practitioner says, and if he says rest and fluids, then make sure that's exactly what your child gets.

Monitor the progress of your child, and if the illness takes a sudden or obvious turn for the worse, never hesitate to seek further assistance. If your child's temperature suddenly spikes upwards, or they go from just being grumpy to being very lethargic and glassy eyed, it's a good idea to get things checked out. Some of the more serious childhood diseases have a very rapid onset period, and if it's obvious that your child's condition is deteriorating rapidly, it's better to be safe than sorry.

When kids aren't feeling well, they're usually grumpy and fretful, and very hard to please. Remember that they're not acting like that just to drive you nuts - think about how cranky you are when you're not feeling well, and have some patience. I've never been one for letting my kids watch a lot of TV, but if one isn't well, then I figure if they stay curled up on the couch all day with their favourite quilt, watching videos, that's probably the best way of making sure they rest. If they're warm and cosy they may even drop off to sleep, which is beneficial too.

Most important of all, though, is to let your child know they're loved and cared for. When my daughter is unwell, she wants mummy, and that's all there is to it. So I put on her favourite video, curl up with her, and we watch it together. Knowing I'm there does more for her than any amount of pills, because it keeps her calm and happy. I try and make sure I have everything I might need close at hand, for example fluids for her to drink, so I don't have to leave her unnecessarily.

A sick child who is also happy and calm is the main aim, so do your best to make sure everything you do contributes to that - without neglecting any medical treatment that is required.