The child and their parents will know the best ways of dealing with these moments. Distraction and talk can sometimes calm an itchy child, together with the acknowledgement that the child may be in genuine distress rather than attention seeking. For a younger child, reading a book, a change of activity, or a special job, can all work as distraction from an itch. It is best if children with eczema can be seated well away from sunny windows and radiators, as itching increases with overheating. A cotton pillowcase, piece of cotton material or folded towel to sit on helps to minimise the irritation from plastic seats.
Some children can be sensitive to dusty conditions or animal fur.
Sitting or playing on a carpet may also aggravate eczema. Soaps, detergents, washing-up liquids and paints can all be irritant to the hands. Children may wish to bring their own special soap, or emollient washing cream, and plastic or cotton gloves. Uniform Children with eczema are usually most comfortable in cotton clothing, particularly next to the skin. As it is not always easy to find non-irritant fabrics which match school uniform colours exactly, it is helpful if schools can be flexible in this respect.