kids FEVER

Most fevers in kids are viral and usually not a big concern, but babies under 3 months need to see a doctor right away.

For fevers, the key is to keep them comfortable, hydrated, and in a soothing environment. Allow them time to recover and avoid secondary infections.
You don’t need to treat the fever itself—it's helping your child fight the infection. The main focus is rest and fluids. Fevers can last several days and might spike in the afternoon or evening, but this is usually fine if they're staying hydrated and seem okay overall.

When to see the doctor:

  • Babies under 1 month with a fever need immediate medical attention.

  • Babies under 3 months with a high fever should see a doctor.

  • If your child isn’t drinking enough fluids, not urinating as usual, or seems “off.”

  • If the fever comes with stiff neck, vomiting, or a severe headache.

  • Severe ear or belly pain.

  • If your child is very lethargic or hard to wake up.

  • If the fever lasts more than 3-5 days.

  • Trust your instinct—if something doesn’t feel right, call the doctor.

Hydration is key:

  • Encourage your kiddo to sip water, electrolyte drinks, or bone broth every 30 minutes.

  • If they’re sleeping a lot, gently wake them up for a sip of something hydrating.

  • Ice pops are a fun way to hydrate without sugar!

For Kiddos 2 and Up, Try the Wet Sock Trick!

  1. Soak a pair of cotton socks in cold water and wring them out.

  2. Put the damp socks on their feet, then cover with a larger pair of wool socks. Make sure their feet are entirely covered.

  3. By morning, the socks will be dry, and their fever will likely be gone!

Watch for comfort:

Monitor your child for signs of being too chilled or overheated. If they seem uncomfortable, stop the treatment and help them regulate their temperature.

  • Use warm blankets from the dryer to heat them up or a cold face cloth on their forehead to cool them down.