How should I take my child’s temperature?

How should I take my child’s temperature?

20 May 2014

The right method depends on your child’s age. Use this chart to help you decide which method to use.

Age

Recommended technique

Birth to 2 years

1st choice: Rectum (for an accurate reading)
2nd choice: Armpit

Between 2 and 5 years

1st choice: Rectum (for an accurate reading)
2nd choice: Ear, armpit

Older than 5 years

1st choice: Mouth (for an accurate reading)
2nd choice: Ear, armpit

What is a normal temperature?

This chart shows you the normal ranges for the different methods of taking your child’s temperature. Print this resource and post it on the fridge or keep it close to your thermometer as a handy reference for when you need it.

Method

Normal temperature range

Rectum

36.6°C to 38°C (97.9°F to 100.4°F)

Mouth

35.5°C to 37.5°C (95.9°F to 99.5°F)

Armpit

34.7°C to 37.3°C (94.5°F to 99.1°F)

Ear 35.8°C to 38°C (96.4°F to 100.4°F)

The degree of a fever does not tell you how serious your child’s illness is. How a child acts is usually a better sign. A child with a mild infection can have a high fever, while a child with a severe infection might have no fever at all.

More information on fevers

This page needs an update? Report it here!