Say This Instead › Taking Medicine

What to say when your toddler refuses to take medicine

For when they refuse medicine or spit it out

🗣 Say this
"This medicine is going to help your body feel better. You can have it from the spoon or the syringe, you pick."
⏱ What to do
1
Give a choice of how, not whether
2
Mix with a small amount of food if safe to do so. Check with your pharmacist
3
Follow immediately with something they like the taste of
4
Stay matter-of-fact. Big reactions make it a bigger deal
5
Praise them after, even if it was a struggle
⚠️ Avoid
❌Hiding medicine without their knowledge if avoidable
❌Making it a huge drama that primes resistance next time
❌Giving up if they spit it. Note how much and re-dose appropriately
❌Forcing it in a way that makes them gag or panic
🔁 If they resist
"I know you don't like it. It's still going to happen. Quick as we can."
→Stay calm and efficient. Your confidence helps them comply
💡 Pro tip
Choice of how, never choice of whether
Instead of
"Just take it! It's not that bad! Stop being so dramatic!"
Try
"Spoon or syringe? Quick or slow? You choose."

Common questions

What should I say when my toddler refuses medicine?
Say matter-of-factly: "This medicine is going to help your body feel better. You can have it from the spoon or the syringe, you pick." Choice of how, never choice of whether. Then move efficiently and follow immediately with something they like.
How do I get my toddler to take medicine without spitting it out?
Use a syringe aimed at the back inner cheek rather than the front of the tongue. Mix with a small amount of food or juice if safe (check with your pharmacist). Follow immediately with a favourite drink or food. Stay matter-of-fact throughout.
What if my toddler spits out their medicine?
Note roughly how much was swallowed, wait a few minutes, then re-dose with the appropriate amount. Check dosing guidance with your pharmacist. Stay calm throughout as distress on your part significantly increases resistance.
How do I make medicine easier for a toddler to take?
Give a choice of delivery method if possible. Check if it can be mixed with food or drink. Keep it fast and confident. Praise them after regardless of how it went. Making a smaller drama of it each time gradually reduces the resistance.

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