Ah, cold and flu season—every mom’s favorite time of year, right? While I can’t deny there’s a certain peace that comes with a quiet house during sniffly days, what really gives me nightmares is getting my kiddos to take their medicine.
My youngest, Jake, is a champ when it comes to liquid meds. At just four years old, he downs his allergy syrup like a pro. My 8-year-old, however? Let’s just say he puts on an Oscar-worthy performance every time I mention medicine. He jumps around, demands endless drinks of water, and cries even before he takes those tiny five milliliters! Over the years, I’ve gathered a few tricks to make this process smoother—for both our sanity. If you’re in a similar boat, check out these tips!
Make it fun.
Start with a positive vibe! I used to tell my son “medicine jokes,” which were basically the corniest jokes I could find online. After a few giggles, I’d say, “Okay, hurry and drink while you’re laughing!” The laughter made him forget he was about to take his medicine.
Hide it.
This is a classic trick that even adults use. If the medicine isn’t something they take every day, consider mixing it with a treat. Just make sure your doctor says it’s okay! Ideas include mixing it into fruit juice (or freeze it into a popsicle!), applesauce, yogurt, or even smoothies. Just remember: your child needs to finish the entire mix to get the full dose.
Allow role-play.
Kids love pretending! Have your little one give their stuffed animal medicine first. You can even introduce the “medicine fairy” who makes special visits!
Add flavor.
Talk to your pharmacist about flavored syrups like FLAVORX that can make the medicine more palatable. Letting your child choose their flavor might just give them the push they need!
Let them take charge.
Kids thrive on independence. Allow them to decide when to take their medicine, and if possible, let them do it themselves. Afterward, shower them with praise for being a “big kid!”
Channel your inner Mary Poppins.
Who wouldn’t want a spoonful of sugar? This can help medicine go down a little easier!
Numb the tongue.
Offering a popsicle before the medicine can mask the taste and cool off their tongue. Alternatively, you can chill a spoon beforehand to achieve a similar effect.
Consider pill or dissolvable forms.
For older kids, syrup might be a hard sell. Ask your doctor if the medication is available in pill or dissolvable tablet form. You might find this route easier!
Bribery is okay.
Sometimes, a little bribe can work wonders. A sticker chart for taking medicine can motivate them to earn a small prize after collecting a certain number of stickers.
Important Reminders:
Always consult your doctor before trying any new methods of administering medicine. Different medications have specific requirements, like whether they can be crushed or taken on an empty stomach. Your child’s trust is paramount, so if you’re hiding medicine, avoid making them feel tricked. Make sure to listen to their concerns and explain how the medicine will help them feel better. It’s perfectly fine to switch up your approach if one method isn’t working.
So, while my son Jake may be a natural when it comes to taking his medicine, for those who aren’t as lucky, I hope these tricks can ease the process a bit. And if you’re considering starting a family or exploring insemination options, check out Make A Mom for their reusable at-home insemination kits or learn about how it works process. You can also join the free sperm donor matching group for additional support. For more insights on fertility, visit this resource on fertility boosters for men or explore medical research related to home insemination. And for excellent information on pregnancy, you can check out this site.
Summary:
Getting kids to take medicine doesn’t have to be a battle. With some creativity and a dash of fun, you can turn this dreaded task into a more manageable experience. Always ensure the methods you use are safe and consult with your pediatrician for guidance.
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