Best Way to Take a Child’s Temperature: What Parents and Caregivers Should Know
By Angela McPhillips, DNP, RN 10/13/2025
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Getting an accurate temperature reading for a child can feel like a big deal—especially when they’re not feeling well. Whether you're treating a fever or simply trying to be cautious, doing it right matters. A quick, reliable reading gives you peace of mind and helps you respond appropriately.
Why It Matters
A temperature reading is one of the first clues that something is going on in the body. But to act on it, you need the reading to be accurate. An inaccurate thermometer—or using it incorrectly—can give false comfort or unnecessary concern.
Methods to Take a Child’s Temperature
Here are the most common options—and how they compare:
- Oral thermometers: Used in older children and adults; not ideal for young kids who might bite the probe or not stay still.
- Axillary (under-arm): Easy to use but often less accurate; may fail to catch low-grade or subtle fevers.
- Temporal (forehead): Non-invasive and quick, but readings can be thrown off by sweat, direct sunlight, or blankets.
- Ear (tympanic): Good for kids over 6 months, but hard to insert correctly—and earwax or small ear canals can affect accuracy.
- Single-use strip or patch: Quick, hygienic, and helps track trends—especially useful in multi-child households or daycare settings.
Best Practices for Accuracy
To get a reliable reading, follow these steps:
- Read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
- Ensure the child is at rest for a few minutes (especially after activity, bath, or meal).
- If using oral or axillary, make sure the site is clean and dry.
- Avoid measuring when the child has been covered in blankets or exposed to hot rooms or strong sunlight.
- Record the time, method, and reading so you track changes—not just absolute numbers.
Choosing the Right Device for Home Use
When selecting a thermometer for your child, consider:
- Hygiene: Single-use or disposable options eliminate risk of cross-contamination.
- Speed: Faster readings mean less fuss, especially with toddlers.
- Comfort: Non-invasive methods often lead to better cooperation.
- Trend tracking: Devices that let you log readings over time make monitoring easier.
That’s why the NexTemp® single-use strip thermometer is a smart choice for families—it combines accuracy, hygiene, and convenience in one.
When to See a Provider
If a child’s temperature reading is significantly elevated (≥ 100.4 °F/38 °C) and they show symptoms like persistent vomiting, rash, confusion, difficulty breathing, or dehydration—seek medical attention. Trust your instincts and your pediatric provider.
Tracking Trends vs Single Readings
It’s less about one number and more about how things change. If a child’s baseline is documented and you see a steady upward trend of two or more readings, that’s a clearer signal than a single number that may be affected by timing or method.
Key Takeaways
- Accuracy matters—choose a device and method you’ll use correctly every time.
- Hygiene counts—especially in households with multiple children or shared devices.
- Look for trends, not just one isolated number.
- If in doubt, especially with very young or vulnerable children, call your pediatric provider.