Top tips for giving medication to kids!

It can be a challenge giving medicine to children – perhaps they don’t like the taste, the look of it, or maybe they just don’t feel like it that day!

Here are a few tactics that might help. Remember every child is different, so what works for one child might not work for another. The most important thing is not to make it a battle.

1. Use the right tool for the job!

• Oral syringes are good for ease and dose accuracy.

• A medicine dummy or dropper might be useful for babies.

• Spoons or cups for older children.

2. Be calm & confident

• Be positive and encouraging. Getting frustrated could make the child more anxious!

• Speak calmly in a gentle, but firm voice.

• Explain what the medicine is for and how it will help. Demonstrate what to do.

• If your child gets frustrated, stop and try again later, perhaps using a different tactic.

3. If safe to do so, mix the medicine with food or drink.

• Check with a pharmacist or doctor first. Some medicines may lose efficacy when mixed.

• If given the go ahead, here are some options:  juice, yogurt, pureed fruit, chocolate spread, or top with sprinkles!

• If your child doesn’t like the taste, offering an ice lolly beforehand might help as this can numb their taste buds.  

4. Give Choices

• Giving them some control can limit resistance, for example:

  
  

“Do you want it in the red cup or the yellow cup; spoon or syringe?”

“Do you want to take it now or after your tv programme?”

5. Make it fun!

• Play a game - perhaps role play with a teddy taking the medicine.

• Distraction can help too. Give them their favourite toy, sing a song, or let them watch a cartoon.

6. Offering rewards can build positive associations.

• High-fives, a bravery sticker, or small treat afterwards.

• Consider a medicine chart for motivation.

7. Use correct techniques.

• For babies: using a syringe, slowly squirt the medicine little at a time into the inside of their cheek (there are no taste buds here!)

• For toddlers: they might prefer to sip from the syringe or cup themselves.

8. Stick to the routine!

• Once you find a way that works for your child, be consistent. Plan to give them the medication at the same time and in the same way every day.

9. Alternatives might be available.

• If all else fails, have a chat with your doctor or pharmacist. Some medicines might be available in other forms or flavours.