How to Take an Oral Temperature

How Do I Take an Oral Temperature?

Taking an oral temperature is easy in an older, cooperative child. Most kids can have their temperature taken this way when they’re about 4–5 years old.

• Use a digital thermometer. (Don’t use a glass thermometer, as these aren’t safe.)
• Wait 20–30 minutes after your child finishes eating or drinking to take an oral temperature, and make sure there's no gum or candy in your child's mouth.
• Place the tip of the thermometer under the tongue and ask your child to close their lips around it. Tell your child not to bite down or talk, and to relax and breathe normally through the nose.