How Do I Get My 3 Year Old to Take Her Medicine?

Three-year-olds are notorious for putting up a fight when you have to give them medicine. Unfortunately, medicines are often necessary to help her fight off an illness. You may be ready to give up and let her suffer, but that isn't what's best for her. With a bit of persistence--maybe some trickery--you'll be able to get your toddler to take her medicine.

Things You'll Need

  • Medicine
  • Cup
  • Dropper
  • Food

Instructions

    • 1

      Change the way you give him his medicine. A 3-year-old who isn't taking his medicine is trying to assert his independence. He may not like the method in which you're giving him the medicine and may respond well if you simply change. For example, if you typically give him the medicine in a dropper, try a cup, a medicine spoon or a regular spoon. The newness of the delivery method could make him feel more excited.

    • 2

      Hide the taste of the medicine. As long as the doctor or pharmacist says it's OK, you can mix the medicine with some of her favorite foods. This will mask the bitter taste of the medicine somewhat, making it easier to get down.

    • 3

      Give him choices. Your child is currently making a choice between the only options he sees--taking his medicine or not taking his medicine. By giving him some choices about how he takes his medicine, you'll be giving him more autonomy. For example, you could give him the choice of taking the medicine before or after eating (assuming the medicine doesn't require an empty or full stomach). Alternatively, you can give him a choice about how he takes the medicine or what food you mix it with. Some pharmacies offer a range of flavors for children's medicine through a product called FLAVORx, so your child may be able to choose his favorite flavor, making it more palatable.

    • 4

      Offer a reward. If your child tends to be reward-motivated, you could offer a reward for every time she takes her medicine. This could be a sticker on a sticker chart, a favorite treat or extra playtime before bed.

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