This is part of a compensated campaign in collaboration with PediaCare®  and Latina Bloggers Connect. All thoughts and opinions shared are my own.

There's nothing I strive to do more than keep my kids safe and healthy. As their mommy, it's my duty and my privilege. Being prone to some pretty severe winter weather here in the midwest, staying germ free is the focus of my initiative in keeping them healthy.

The one thing that my kids have become accustomed to in our house that help us all stay germ-free, is hand washing. They're pretty much just in the habit of doing it now. ALL. THE. TIME. It's totally routine. They walk in, take off their shoes, and then wash their hands. Whether it's from returning from school, a store, or even just from playing outside, we've become vigilant hand washers in this family!

It's also a idea to make sure your survival supply is fully stocked. For starters, double check that your thermometer is working. Just recently I discovered my digital one needed a replacement button cell battery. If you’re not sure about the proper functioning of your thermometer, buy a new one. Tissues and extra hand sanitizer are a must. Although we prefer hand washing with soap and water (it's better and more effective), sometimes a little germ gel (a.k.a., hand sanitzer) goes a long way. Just make sure it contains at least 62% isopropyl alcohol. Mini hand sanitizers are a great item to have with you at all times. I keep several in my purse, car, and my kids even have them in their school backpacks.

Sleep plays another major role in the kids' health. Tired kids are much more susceptible to viral infections. Establish a good bedtime routine to help make sure your little one always gets a good night’s sleep.

With all that said, and all the precautions we take, sometimes a runny nose, a little cough or a light fever is unavoidable. Keep in mind, it’s normal to have 3 days of fever in the beginning of a cold. However, if the fever lasts any longer than 4 days or returns later, it could signal a bacterial infection. When your little one starts showing signs of illness, choose from one of our specialized medicines for kids. PediaCare® products can be found at a Dollar General near you.

Click here to download the PediaCare® dosage chart, which will help you match your child’s symptoms with one of our products. When using the chart, it’s best to weigh your child first to determine proper dosing of PediaCare® products. If weight is not known, you can go by their age.

Save on PediaCare®  with Coupon at Dollar General Stores

It's always a good idea to stock up on medicine before you actually need it. You can save with this $1 off coupon when you head to your local Dollar General to purchase PediaCare's Cough & Runny Nose plus Acetaminophen.

To learn more, connect with PediaCare® on their website or Facebook.