Every day, children who are seriously ill and hospitalized experience feelings of fear, pain, and sadness. Starlight works to make hospitals a more comfortable place for these kids by offering programs that bring joy and distraction to aid in the healing process.
Healing Begins with Happiness™
In 2024, Starlight had a positive impact on over 3 million pediatric patients and their families at 824 medical facilities across the US, resulting in improved health outcomes for children.
8 Years of ★★★★ Ratings
Starlight has consistently received high ratings for transparency and accountability from non-profit organizations like Charity Navigator, maintaining a four-star rating for eight consecutive years.
In addition to its stellar ratings, Starlight has also been recognized for its impact on the communities it serves. Through innovative programs and partnerships, Starlight has been able to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need.
For hospitalized kids, that moment begins with you.
By providing Starlight gowns and toys, children can embody heroic qualities of strength and courage, helping them feel at ease and secure during their hospital treatments.
More to Explore
Explore our website further to discover more exciting articles, helpful resources, and interesting facts. Don’t miss out on our latest updates and be sure to follow us on social media for even more engaging content!
Stories
Visit our blog to read real stories about how our programs are making a difference in the lives of children and their families, spreading happiness and comfort.
Our stories showcase the heartwarming moments and inspiring transformations that occur when children are provided with the support and resources they need to thrive. From overcoming challenges to achieving success, these stories illustrate the power of love, compassion, and dedication in creating brighter futures for our youth.
Join us in celebrating these remarkable tales of resilience and hope, and discover the impact that our programs have on the lives of those we serve. Together, we can make a difference and spread joy to children and families in need.
Fund a Program
Support enjoyable initiatives like Gowns and Toys to bring light to a child’s hospital stay in your area with Starlight.
Team Starlight
Join Team Starlight and participate in charity runs to raise funds that bring joy to hospitalized children across the US.
Stream for Starlight (S4S)
Stream happiness or take part in fundraising campaigns to support Starlight’s programs for children in hospitals, making a positive impact on their lives.
Join The Constellation
By donating $1,000 or more annually, you can join The Constellation community and contribute to bringing joy and comfort to children in need, creating a lasting impact.
Become a Member
Impact
Stay informed about our programs and their impact through regular reports and insights from donors, demonstrating how contributions bring about meaningful change.
Our programs focus on various areas such as education, healthcare, and economic empowerment. Through these programs, we have been able to make a significant impact on the lives of individuals and communities. For example, our education initiatives have helped improve literacy rates and provide access to quality education for underprivileged children. Our healthcare programs have increased access to essential medical services and improved overall well-being in the communities we serve. Additionally, our economic empowerment projects have helped create sustainable livelihoods and lift families out of poverty.
National Reach, Local Impact
Place our cost-free programs in over 800 healthcare facilities to benefit children in need, find a participating hospital near you.
Knowing exactly what to do when your child comes home can be overwhelming. Try these tips to soothe symptoms.
Learn tips to ease your child’s symptoms and help them recover quickly from illnesses, including remedies for fever, dehydration, and easily digestible foods.
Connect with healthdirect Australia to receive free advice from nurses and doctors to guide you on the appropriate actions to take.
Key facts
- Ensure timely vaccinations and good hygiene practices to keep your child healthy.
- If symptoms persist for more than 2 days, seek medical advice from a doctor.
- It is important to monitor your child’s temperature regularly to detect any signs of illness.
- Encourage your child to wash their hands frequently and practice good respiratory hygiene to prevent the spread of germs.
- Make sure your child gets plenty of rest and stays hydrated when feeling unwell.
How can I tell if my child is sick?
Recognize signs of illness in children, such as fever, headache, congestion, and changes in breathing. Use the Symptom Checker for guidance on seeking medical help.
Common Childhood Illnesses:
- Common Cold: A viral infection that causes symptoms like runny nose, coughing, and sneezing. Rest and fluids can help alleviate symptoms.
- Flu (Influenza): Another viral infection with symptoms like fever, body aches, and fatigue. Rest and plenty of fluids are important for recovery.
- Strep Throat: A bacterial infection that causes a sore throat, fever, and difficulty swallowing. Antibiotics are usually needed to treat strep throat.
- Ear Infections: Often caused by bacteria, ear infections can lead to ear pain, fever, and difficulty hearing. Antibiotics may be prescribed to treat severe cases.
- Gastroenteritis: Commonly known as the stomach flu, gastroenteritis is an infection of the digestive tract that causes symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. Hydration is key to recovery.
It’s important to monitor your child’s symptoms and seek medical attention if they worsen or if you are concerned about their health. Vaccinations can also help prevent certain childhood illnesses, so make sure your child is up to date on their immunizations.
Remember, good hygiene practices like regular handwashing, proper cough etiquette, and staying home when sick can go a long way in preventing the spread of germs and keeping your child healthy.
Should I keep my child home from school or daycare?
Monitor your child for signs like high temperature, diarrhea, vomiting, sore throat, cough, runny nose, or rash if they are unwell. Observe their condition for a few hours before deciding if they should stay home to prevent spreading illness to others.
Keeping sick children at home helps reduce the spread of diseases to other children and protects everyone.
Additional Tips for Taking Care of Your Child
Along with seeking medical attention when necessary, there are some general tips to help take care of your child at home:
- Ensure your child gets plenty of rest to aid in recovery.
- Encourage them to drink fluids to stay hydrated, especially if they have a fever or are experiencing vomiting or diarrhea.
- Provide appropriate medication as prescribed by a healthcare professional.
- Keep your child’s environment clean and sanitary to prevent the spread of illness.
- Follow recommended vaccination schedules to help protect your child from preventable diseases.
Remember to always consult a doctor if you have any concerns about your child’s health. It’s better to be cautious and seek medical advice when needed.
How can I stop my child from getting sick?
Childhood vaccines are effective in preventing common illnesses. Along with vaccination, teach children good hygiene practices like handwashing, coughing into elbows, and avoiding sharing items. Adequate sleep and a balanced diet are essential for a healthy immune system.
If your child frequently gets sick, seek guidance from a doctor.
Other ways to help prevent illness in children include:
- Encouraging regular exercise to boost immunity
- Ensuring your child is dressed appropriately for the weather to avoid getting colds
- Limiting exposure to sick individuals, especially during cold and flu season
- Teaching your child to avoid touching their face, especially their eyes, nose, and mouth
- Keeping your home clean and sanitized to reduce the spread of germs
It’s important to be proactive in preventing illness in children and to seek medical advice if your child shows signs of frequent sickness.
How do I know if my child’s vaccinations are up to date?
Access your child’s vaccination records on the myGov website and consult a doctor if any vaccinations have been missed. Most vaccines are provided at no cost according to the National Immunization Program Schedule.
Other questions you might have
Should I let my child sleep when they’re not feeling well?
Allowing your child to rest is crucial for their recovery. Keep an eye on changes in their sleep and appetite, seeking medical advice if symptoms persist.
Should I wake a sick child to give them medicine?
Many minor illnesses do not require medication. Paracetamol and ibuprofen can help manage fever or discomfort, but use them only as directed. If unsure about dosing, contact a doctor.
Resources and Support
Find resources in languages other than English for managing viral illnesses in children. Reach out to the healthdirect helpline for 24/7 nurse support.
Related pages
Search our site for
- Fever
- Common Cold
- Vaccination
- Scarlet Fever
- Paediatricians
- School exclusions
Need more information?
Learn more about this topic from trusted sources.
Strep throat is a bacterial infection that affects the throat and tonsils, caused by group A Streptococcus. This bacterium can also lead to scarlet fever and impetigo.
Read more on the Ausmed Education website
Respiratory viruses fact sheet – Fact sheets
Respiratory viruses cause illnesses that affect the nose, throat, and respiratory passages, including the lungs, often resulting in mild cold or flu-like symptoms.
Read more on the NSW Health website
Influenza (flu) tests | Pathology Tests Explained
Influenza, or the flu, is a seasonal viral infection that starts in mid-late autumn, disappearing in spring, commonly affecting the respiratory system.
Read more on the Pathology Tests Explained website
Rat lung worm disease fact sheet – Fact sheets
Rat lungworm disease is an extremely rare cause of meningitis in Australia, linked to ingesting infected snails and slugs. While most people recover fully, it can lead to severe illness, with preventive measures reducing the risk.
Read more on the NSW Health website
Gastroenteritis Symptoms, Spread and Prevention | Ausmed
Gastroenteritis is an infection or inflammation of the digestive system, caused by various pathogens, most of which are contagious.
Read more on the Ausmed Education website
Murray Valley Encephalitis | Ausmed
The Murray Valley encephalitis virus, identified during a 1951 epidemic, has resulted in sporadic cases since then, primarily causing encephalitis.
Read more on the Ausmed Education website
Hyperglycaemia: A Diabetes Emergency | Ausmed
Hyperglycemia indicates abnormally high glucose levels in the bloodstream, leading to various symptoms, with severe cases potentially being asymptomatic until critical levels.
Read more on the Ausmed Education website
Blood culture | Pathology Tests Explained
Blood cultures are conducted to detect and identify bacteria and yeasts in the blood, assisting in diagnosing infections.
Read more on the Pathology Tests Explained website
COVID-19 Guide – Immunisation Coalition
About COVID-19: an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, detailing the cause, transmission, symptoms, complications, prevention, vaccine efficacy, safety, and treatment.
Read more on the Immunization Coalition website
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