Ways to Give Children Medicine

All of us fall ill at some point of time or the other, in our life. In such a scenario, a visit to the doctor and consumption of medicines becomes inevitable. Whether they taste bad or good, which they rarely do, we know that we have to take the medicine and this is what we do. However, giving medicine to kids is a different thing altogether. Neither are they as mature, nor as sensible as adults are. Moreover, their sickness leads to the irritable and fussy nature, making them less co-operative, especially while taking medicines. So, it is your responsibility to make them understand the reason for taking medicine and ensure that even a single dose is not missed. In the following lines, we will provide you some tips for giving medicine to kids.

How To Give Medicine To A Child

Never ever lie about the taste of the medicine. The child is going to find about it soon enough. So, while you might get him/her to take medicine the first time, the second time will become a harrowing experience.
Always be sure about how much medicine is to be given to the child, how many times in a day. At the same time, read what is inside the medicine, to prevent any allergic reactions later on.
In case of younger infants, you can try mixing some medications with applesauce, cranberry juice or ice cream.
Use a little imagination while giving the medicine to your child. It might make the process easier.
In case of tablets, you can grind them into powder and mix them with any food item, such as pudding, to give to your child.
For liquid medicine, shake well before use. Thereafter, use medicine dropper, oral syringe, medicine cup, or medicine spoon to give it to your child.
Always be patient while giving medicine to your child. Getting angry will only make him/her more stubborn.
Young kids and toddlers should be given the medicine in liquid form, with a dropper. Squeeze the medicine at the back of your child’s mouth. This will prevent him/ her from spiting out the medicine.
Tell your child the reason for giving the medicine. For example, it will make the pain go away. This might make him/her more receptive to medication.
When your child takes medicine without creating a fuss, make sure to praise him/ her.
You can even request the doctor to prescribe chewable medicine (if possible), as kids create fewer hurdles while taking this type of medicine.
Flavorings for bitter medicine have also become famous these days, as it helps a child take them readily. However, it is advisable to seek the doctor’s permission before adding flavor in medicine.
You can even tell the child to hold his/ her nose while having medicine, as it will minimize his ability to taste it.
You can even reward the child if he/ she has taken the medicine, without creating much fuss. Gift him his favorite book, toy or food once he/ she.
You can keep your child’s favorite drink ready after taking the medicine, to curb the bad taste of the latter.

How to Cite

Related Articles

See also

More in 'Parenting & Family'