Question: How Can Parents Make Taking Medicine Easier?
Answer: As if it weren't stressful enough for your child to be sick, coaxing him to take medicine can be quite a challenge. There are ways to help ease the chore.
Be sensitive to why she might be resisting, and try and fix it.
Does the medicine taste bitter or is it hard to swallow due to a sore and swollen throat? Ask your doctor or pharmacist about alternative ways the medicine can be dispensed. Some prescriptions can be taken either as liquid, chewables, or pills. You could also consider asking your pharmacist to add flavoring to the prescription. Many pharmacies are starting to add flavors as an option. Is your child's stomach upset? Consider letting a child her favorite treat or give her a popsicle to help ease the stomach upset.
Have you maintained control?
Does your child think there is an option as to whether to take the medicine? Don't coax; getting into an argument about whether to take medicine is not the right solution. Let your child focus on the task at hand and explain that this will make their sickness better. Stay calm and positive, but remain firm that taking medicine is not an option. Then, reward your child with a big hug, or reading a special book, as positive reinforcement.
