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Fever in Children 6-11 Years

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How to Take Your Child’s Temperature

“I think I have a fever.” If your child utters those words before a test at school, you can’t help but smile. And sometimes the only way to convince them (and yourself) that they’re okay is to take their temperature. Here’s how to get an accurate temperature reading.

How to take your child’s temperature

Since you child is more than 3 years old, it’s recommended that you use a digital (not glass) oral thermometer rather than a digital tympanic (ear) thermometer. Just remember to read and follow the manufacturer’s instruction for use and cleaning.

When to take your child’s temperature

It’s normal for your child’s temperature to change throughout the day. Follow these tips to get a good idea if your child is getting better or not:

  • Take your child’s temperature early in the morning and late in the afternoon — just note that it’s normal for your child’s temperature to be higher in the afternoon .
  • If your child seems to be getting worse, take their temperature more often
  • While your child is feverish, take their temperature at the same time each day. You should, however, take your child to a doctor if they have a fever for more than 3 days.

What temperature indicates a fever

Simply put, fever is a body temperature that is higher than the normal range of 36°C to 37.5°C (96.8°F to 99.5°F). However, the medical definition of a fever is slightly different and depends on how the temperature was taken:

  • Orally — higher than 37.8°C (100.04°F)
  • In the armpit — higher than 37°C (98.6°F)

Also note that a higher fever doesn’t necessarily mean that your child is sicker. For example, a mild viral infection such as roseola may cause a very high temperature, whereas a serious hospital-acquired infection may cause your child to have no fever and could cause a drop in their body temperature. You should call your doctor anytime you are unsure about your child’s symptoms.

If your child does have a fever, read Tips for relief of your child’s fever for advice on how to lower it and when to call the doctor.

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References:

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