We give the hottest bath we can give without buring them right before bed. That seems to clear some of the congestion that may cause the coughing. We also do the humidifier and the Vicks rub on their chest and throat (I know some people say this really doesn't do anything, but I figure it doesn't hurt).
Re: horrible cough
I am pretty sure the FDA has said kids under 5 or 6 shouldn't have cough medicine at all. I personally wouldn't do it.
Saying that, I don't have any other suggestions. Coughs suck. I will try the buckwheat honey next time!
If you doctor prescribes it's ok, Nothing OTC has been approved by the FDA for young kids.
Also wanted to add--we do the saline drops and make the kids sit up after I administer them so the drops will flow down to their chest.