Measuring your childs temperature
An unusually hot forehead may indicate that a child has a fever, but it's important to measure the exact temperature with a thermometer. Young children should have their temperature taken under their armpits while children over the age of five will probably tolerate having thermometers placed under their tongues in the more traditional way.
Taking a temperature correctly
There are two types of thermometers, standard mercury thermometers and digital thermometers, which enable parents to take their child's temperature more easily. Remember never to leave your child alone with a thermometer in his/her mouth.
Before using, check the silvery column of mercury is shaken down to 35°C.
Place the bulb end in the armpit or fold of the groin and hold your child's arms or legs securely to keep it in place for two minutes.
If your child has a fever, repeat the temperature reading after 20 minutes to see if there has been a change.