"Children are more likely to get nosebleeds during the winter months because cold air can cause the inside of the nose to become dry, cracked and crusted," says Dr. Judith Gorra, primary care pediatrician at Temple University Children's Medical Center. "This allows the mucous membranes inside the nose to rupture easily. Once the membranes rupture, blood flows freely from the nostril."

Gorra says that nosebleeds usually occur in toddlers and school-age children. She adds that children can also get nosebleeds from rubbing and picking. "The normal rubbing and picking that all children do when the nose is dry, blocked or itchy can also promote nosebleeds.

"Packing, pinching the bridge of the nose, and wet washcloths to the forehead do not stop nosebleeds," Gorra explains. "Avoid packing the nose with anything because when it is removed, the nose usually starts bleeding again."

Gorra recommends the following tips to stop nosebleeds:

• The child should first blow his or her nose to free any large clots that might interfere with applying pressure.

• Apply pressure by squeezing the soft part of the nose for 10 minutes. Don't release the pressure until the 10 minutes are up. • Have the child sit up and lean forward to avoid swallowing blood. Have a basin available so he or she can spit out any blood that drains into the throat. Swallowed blood is irritating to the stomach. Don't be surprised if it is vomited up.

"Parents can prevent their children from getting nosebleeds by using a humidifier in the child's bedroom at night," Gorra says. "Another helpful tip is to apply a small amount of petroleum jelly twice a day to the center wall inside the nose. That helps relieve dryness and irritation."