Helpful Strategies for Getting Your Hesitant Kids to Take Medicine

As a parent, there’s nothing I dread more than the arrival of cold and flu season, although I must admit that the quiet that follows is sometimes a welcome relief. It’s not the illness itself that fills me with anxiety; rather, it’s the challenge of getting my kids to take their medicine.

My youngest child is a pro at taking liquid medications. At just four years old, he effortlessly downs any medicine I give him. Whether it’s allergy syrup or an over-the-counter remedy for a cold, he takes it like a champ.

But my seven-year-old? That’s a whole different story. Getting him to take his medicine involves a theatrical performance. He jumps around, pleads for endless drinks of water, and cries before managing to swallow the five milliliters required. Over time, I’ve picked up some tricks to make this process a little smoother—for both his sake and mine. If you’re facing similar challenges, these tips might help.

Make it Enjoyable

The approach you take will depend on your child. I often tell my son “medicine jokes,” which are really just corny one-liners I find online. By the time I finish the joke, he’s in a good mood and I can say, “Okay, hurry and drink while you’re laughing!” The laughter acts as a great distraction from the task at hand.

Conceal It

This trick isn’t just for kids; adults use it too! It’s much easier to get your child to take medicine if they don’t even realize it’s there. If they don’t take this medicine daily, consider mixing it with a special treat. Always consult your doctor first, but here are some options:

Fruit Juice (you can even freeze it into a popsicle)
Applesauce
Yogurt
Smoothies
Chocolate or Strawberry Syrup
Breast milk or formula (for infants)

Using applesauce or yogurt pouches can be especially clever. Just open the pouch and use a syringe to add the medication. However, be careful to ensure your child consumes the entire dose.

Role-Play

Younger children love to engage in pretend play. Let them give medicine to a doll or stuffed animal before taking their own. A sprinkle of magic can also work wonders; we’ve had a “medicine fairy” visit our house on occasion.

Add Flavor

As previously mentioned, asking your doctor if you can mix the medicine with juice at home is an excellent way to change the taste. You might also inquire about FLAVORX, a flavored syrup that can be added to some medications. Allowing your child to choose their favorite flavor could be just the motivation they need.

Empower Them

Nothing makes a toddler happier than feeling in control. Let them decide when to take their medicine, and, if possible, allow them to administer it themselves. When they finish, shower them with “big kid” praise!

Use a Numbing Method

This doesn’t have to be as extreme as it sounds. Giving your child a popsicle before taking their medicine can mask the flavor and cool their tongue. You can also chill a spoon and let them hold it in their mouth first, but I bet they’ll enjoy the popsicle more.

For older children, consider using a medicine syringe to bypass the tongue entirely. Aim for the back of the cheek to avoid unpleasant tastes.

Opt for Pills or Dissolvable Tablets

For older kids, syrup form might not cut it. Check with your doctor to see if the medication is available in pill or dissolvable form. Teaching them how to swallow a pill could be less daunting than the syrup.

Bribery Can Work

Sometimes, a little incentive can go a long way. Create a sticker chart; each time they take their medicine, they earn a sticker. Collect a certain number, and they can choose a small reward.

Key Points to Keep in Mind

Always consult your physician before trying a new method of administering medicine. Some medications are time-released and shouldn’t be crushed, while others must be taken on an empty stomach. While we’re trying to ease the process, the most critical factor is ensuring the medicine is given correctly.

Your attitude matters—patience is essential. Never let your child feel like you “won” by getting them to take their medicine. If you choose to conceal the medicine, don’t make them feel tricked; this could lead to trust issues down the line.

Engage in conversation. Children can understand explanations, and they have feelings too. Ensure their worries are heard so that you can address any fears they may have about taking medicine. Explain what the medication does and how it will help them feel better.

It’s perfectly fine to switch up your methods. What works one time may not work the next. Be open to adjusting your approach as needed.

Maybe you’ll be fortunate like I was with my youngest, and your child will take their medicine without fuss. If not, these tricks should help make the process a little less stressful.

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Summary:

Administering medicine to reluctant children can be challenging, but there are several strategies to make the process easier. From making it fun and hiding the medicine to allowing kids to role-play and empowering them to take charge, these tips can help reduce stress for both parents and children. Always consult with a physician before trying new methods, and remember that patience and communication are key.