No wonder your little one doesn’t like the taste of medicine, you hated it too when you were young! Aside from the not-so-appealing taste of most medications, anyone who feels sick simply has no taste buds or appetite for much of anything.

But sick children need to take the medicine recommended by the doctor to get better, so here are some effective tips and tricks to give your child medicine successfully:

provide choice

Young people tend to lose control of themselves, especially when they are not feeling well, so it is extremely helpful to guide them and provide them with options at every step towards recovery.

When it’s time to take a medicine, present them with different options that will make them feel in control: how they take it (from a cup or syringe, with your help or on their own), when they take it (before or after their sponge bath ) and where they do it (sitting in bed, on the couch watching TV, or in the game room).

Just be sure to supervise them if they decide to take it themselves!

give it the right way

Kids often hate taking medicine because of the taste, but sometimes the way it’s given is also a big reason. They tend to choke or vomit, so make sure the medicine is given in amounts the child can swallow properly (divide larger doses, especially thick medicine, into smaller portions).

For babies, do not spray the medication directly into the throat. Instead, spray it on the bottom of the cheek, waiting for it to be swallowed before spraying more. Always administer the medication in a sitting or standing position!

Always have a positive approach

A child needs to understand that taking medicine is not a punishment, so always approach it with a positive attitude. Don’t forget to praise her if she took it without a fight!

give rewards

If you really have a hard time giving medicine to your little one, prepare a box of small gifts (small toys, stickers, etc.) where they can choose what they want after taking the medicine. Young children are motivated by rewards and incentives, plus your sick little one deserves some fun!

Explain why it is important

Younger children won’t understand, but you can explain why it’s important to take medication for school-age children. Let them know that the sooner they take it, the sooner they will get better and be able to play!

Try these stress-free tips for successful child medication!