Your child needs antibiotics. They spit out every dose. You tried hiding it in juice. Nothing works. The prescription sits half-empty while their infection lingers.
Get a medication syringe from the pharmacy. Never use spoons. Position your toddler upright. Insert the syringe between their teeth and cheek, aiming for the back of the cheek where taste buds are fewer. Drip medicine slowly. Keep their mouth gently closed until they swallow.
Ask your pharmacist about flavor additives. Many pharmacies offer FLAVORx services that add chocolate, cherry, or bubblegum flavoring to antibiotics.
For children who spit out medicine, try the cold tongue method first. Give them a popsicle or ice cubes before medicine time. A cold tongue reduces taste sensitivity.
Mix medicine with a small amount of chocolate syrup or ice cream. Use only 5ml of sweetener mixed with the dose. Never mix medicine in a full bottle or cup because you need them to consume the entire dose.
Give choices under your supervision. Ask: "Do you want to take this with a syringe or a cup?" or "Do you want water or juice after?" Control over small decisions reduces resistance.
Create a sticker chart. One sticker per successful dose. After five stickers, they earn a small reward like extra story time.
Never call medicine candy. This creates dangerous confusion. Be honest: "This helps your body fight germs so you feel better."
Source: https://www.chla.org/blog/advice-experts/6-tips-will-take-strain-out-giving-your-child-medication
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Calm Toddler Hacks provided by Chilkibo Publishing, helping families find their calm with trusted strategies.
