12/15/2025
Vomiting, puking, throwing up, etc-there’s lots of names for it but no matter what you call it the stomach bug is NO FUN! Here are 5 facts to help you survive it:
1. Kids notoriously have terrible aim, and little control. Don’t expect them to make it to the bathroom! Use a trash can (double lined) or plastic bowl and keep it bedside.
2. Vomiting makes you thirsty but do NOT drink or let your kiddo drink immediately after (except to rinse and spit. We generally recommend waiting AT LEAST 30 minutes (ideally 60) after vomiting before starting fluids then start with sips-slow and steady wins the race. (and if it strikes again, the clock starts over)
3. Speaking of drinking, do NOT give your kiddo milk when they’re vomiting no matter how much they ask for it (EXCEPTION: if you are a breastfeeding momma go ahead and nurse your sick one, they’ll be good to go). Clear fluids (water, Pedialyte, Gatorade, Sprite, popsicles) are best.
4. If they fall asleep, let them sleep! Sleep is a great tool to let a crampy/upset stomach settle. (yes, check on them periodically. also yes, tuck a beach towel across their bed).
5. You can start solids again once it’s been 6 hours without vomiting. Your best bets are things like crackers, pretzels, dry cheerios, toast, etc. Do not be alarmed if it takes 24 hours OR MORE for their appetite to return to normal. Fluid intake trumps solids.
(2 bonus notes…
*vomiting is often followed by other unpleasant gastrointestinal occurrences. Don’t be surprised, do be prepared with cleaning supplies and heaps of patience. *if your child has significantly less wets, no tears when crying, or is unable to tolerate fluids after several attempts please contact your physician!)