Having sick kids is the worst part about parenting. No one wants to watch their child suffer. I remember when Emma was just a baby and she had her first high grade fever. It was one of the most scary nights of my life. We did all of the things our pediatrician suggested:
How to treat a child’s fever
Administer tylenol or motrin as directed, going by the weight of your child. This helps control the fever and eases the pain. Fevers tend to spike at nighttime, so try and give the last dose just before bedtime.
Give a lukewarm bath. This will help the fever and to distract the child with some bathtime fun. Never use cold water, only lukewarm.
Use a cold compress for the head and neck. This will help keep the child comfortable.
Keep the child hydrated. I have had instances where my children are so miserable that they refuse to drink a drop. In these cases I will use a medicine dropper to squirt water into their mouths. Ice pops also work well. If your child won’t shed tears or looks sallow, he or she is likely dehydrated and must be taken to the emergency room as soon as possible.
Over the years I have become more confident about treating them correctly, but I still despise fevers passionately. I love to buy new parents the New Baby Essentials Kit by Little Remedies. The recipients will thank you later.
Unfortunately, all of my children were born sick. We keep tylenol and motrin on hand. Never know when you are going to need them.