Is it normal for a child with the flu to sound croupy when coughing?

Possibly: The cough with the flu may taken on many forms. Typically it is a dry, hacking cough. However influenza (as well as other viruses) may cause a distinctive "croupy" cough, that sounds like a dog or a seal barking. A croupy cough may sound like the child is having a hard time getting air into the lungs and can cause significant distress. Humidified air helps, but call a doctor for labored breathing.