Fever in children can be worrying.
We've rounded up 6 simple tips to help you monitor your child's temperature and know when to seek medical advice.
1. Know What Counts as a Fever
Children's temperatures naturally fluctuate throughout the day, but a reading of 37.5°C or above is generally considered a fever.
Don't panic if you see a high number, it's important to look at how your child is behaving overall, not just the temperature itself.
2. Use a Reliable Thermometer
While a warm forehead can be a clue, the best way to check for a fever is with a quality infrared thermometer.
Quick reference:
| Age | Best method |
|---|---|
| 0–3 months | Forehead (infrared) |
| 3–6 months | Forehead (infrared) |
| 6 months+ | Forehead or ear |
| 4 years+ | Oral also becomes an option |
Fever Boss has a premium thermopile sensor (accuracy of ±0.2°C and 1 second reading) which checks ear and forehead temperature accurately from birth.
Please note that cheaper thermometers have a sensor with a higher variation (accuracy of ±1°C and 3 second reading)
Our award winning infrared thermometer is a best seller in Baby Bunting.
3. Watch Your Child, Not Just the Number
A child with a mild fever who is drinking fluids, responding normally and having periods of play is often less concerning than a child with a lower temperature who is lethargic or difficult to wake.
Health professionals recommend paying close attention to your child's overall condition.
4. Keep a Record of Temperatures
Write down the temperature, time and any symptoms you notice. This can help you track whether the fever is improving and provide useful information if you need to speak with a doctor.
5. Encourage Fluids and Rest
Fevers can increase the risk of dehydration. Offer water, breast milk, formula or oral rehydration solutions regularly and encourage plenty of rest.
Electrolyte iceblocks can be a cool treat to soothe hot bodies, whilst replenishing essential minerals of sodium, potassium and magnesium.
Keeping your child comfortable is often more important than trying to reduce the temperature immediately.
Use pain relief medication as per age guidelines.
6. Know When to Seek Medical Help
Seek urgent medical attention if your baby is under three months old and has a fever above 37.5°C.
You should also see a doctor if your child has difficulty breathing, appears unusually drowsy, isn't drinking fluids, develops a rash, or if you're concerned for any reason.
Your gut feeling is often the best measure.
The Bottom Line
Fevers can be stressful, but they're a normal part of childhood. By monitoring your child's temperature, watching for changes in their behaviour and knowing when to seek medical advice, you can feel more confident when caring for a sick little one.
Our Fever Boss bundle can help; it contains:
- Fever Boss (to fast and accurate temperature recording)
- Snotty Boss Nasal Aspirator (for snot removal in 10 seconds)
Reference sources.
1.Raising Children - High temperature of fever in children
Retrieved from: High temperature or fever in children | Raising Children Network
2. Health Direct Australia - Fever and high temperature in children and babies
Retrieved from: when to see a doctor | healthdirect
3. Australian Government Department of Health - Children's health
Retrieved from: Children's health | Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing
Disclaimer: We are not doctors or healthcare professionals or aromatherapists. Our products are offered for sale with general use guidelines provided by the manufacturer. Should any sensitivity to our products occur, please discontinue use. Our products are not intended to diagnose, treat, and/or take the place of medical treatment prescribed by a doctor or medical professional.
