Cough and cold season is officially in full swing, and children regularly catch seasonal illnesses, too — often several times per year. With all the medications promising relief, what’s a concerned parent to do?

Instead of turning to over-the-counter cough and cold treatments, parents should consider following the American Academy of Pediatrics recommendations and try home remedies first. Doctors at St. Luke’s University Health Network agree.Like all medications, even cold and cough medicines sold over the counter may cause serious side effects in kids, according to the AAP. Due to potential risks, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends that children younger than 4 years old should never be given over-the-counter treatments.“Multiple studies have shown that cough and cold products are ineffective in alleviating symptoms or shortening the duration of symptoms,” says Jennifer Janco, M.D., chair of Pediatrics, St. Luke’s University Health Network.“If it doesn’t work and it may cause harm, you are better off using some of the tried and true ‘grandma’ home remedies such as salt water or honey.”Of course, simply using a single ingredient fever/pain reducer at the correct dose is certainly a valid option if your little one has fever or pain as part of his or her symptoms.“There are safer, more convenient and less costly ways to give sick kids some relief from symptoms such as coughing and a stuffy nose,” Janco advises.