Taking care of children can be challenging, but administering medicine when a child is sick can be an even bigger challenge for parents. When giving prescription or over-the-counter medicine, safety should always be a parent's top concern. First and foremost, parents need to make sure that they have carefully read the dosage instructions and are giving the right amount at the right time. Keep in mind, young children under the age of 2 must have doctor's approval before given over-the-counter medications.

Consider these tips for administering medicine to young children:

1. Always give proper dosage. Avoid estimating the amount of medicine that needs to be given. Not following proper dose and recommended age-limit can be harmful to a child.
2. Read labels at all times. Know the specifics including: symptoms of illness, possible side effects, how it reacts with other medications, how frequent and how much time is needed to take the medicine, and the length of time it takes to start working.
3. Make sure you are aware of the different abbreviations. For example, teaspoon is abbreviated Tsp or lowercase t and the abbreviation for tablespoon is Tbsp or uppercase T. Don't mistake one for the other.
4. Use precise label measurements. Some medications will come with a measuring device to use.
5. Contact your child's doctor or pharmacist if you have questions or concerns regarding the medicine. Inform them of other medications your child is taking.
6. Use child-resistant medicines and secure the cap after use. Store all medicines out of the reach of children.
7. Make sure to check the product for signs of tampering such as: package tears, slices, or cuts.
8. Be aware of the date of expiration. Discontinue use of the medicine if it has expired.