Swallowing pills is something that kids and even adults have difficulties to do.
It’s something that you can teach children over five to try and this paediatrician has a hack to achieve that.
Paed’s Hack to Help Kids Swallow Pills
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Dr Niamh Lynch shared her tips to teach kids how to swallow pills.
She said it is possible for kids aged five and above to swallow pills and you can help the process by teaching them.
The first step is using something small, like a sprinkle you would usually have on a cake.
Get one sprinkle and put it on their tongue.
After that just take a sip of water and they should be able to swallow the sprinkle.
Once that’s done, you can gradually start with something bigger than a sprinkle, like half a chocolate chip.
Repeat the same process with a full chocolate chip.
Then, once they can swallow a full chocolate chip with ease, gradually start with a half of button shaped chocolate candy and later a full one.
Once you’ve progressed through all the sweets, you can start introducing them to pills for their medication.
She also reminded parents that you shouldn’t try this with kids under five as they might swallow something they shouldn’t.
Other Strategies to Swallow Pills
If that doesn’t work for your child, Healthline shared a few other tips to help kids swallow pills and that includes:
1. Drink Lots of Water
Instead of placing the pill before drinking water, it is suggested that the pill is placed after drinking.
If your child gags on it and can’t swallow, carefully remove the pill and dry it off with a tissue.
2. Use Soft Food
Another way to help your child swallow pills is to bury the pill in a spoonful of something you’re used to swallowing.
However, make sure to ask your doctor beforehand if the pill prescribed is okay for you to mix in food.
You should also ask if it’s fine for the pill to be crushed or halved.
3. Use a Straw
Drinking water from a straw is your child tries to swallow their pill is also another good way.
The reflex movement of sucking up liquid while the mouth seals the straw can distract them while they swallow their medication.
The Reason It’s Difficult to Swallow Pills
It’s difficult sometimes for kids to swallow pills because of choking.
It’s something that even some adults still experience.
According to Healthline, it is possible for a pill to become trapped in your oesophagus.
It’s uncomfortable but it’s not usually a medical emergency.
It’s Fine If They Still Can’t Do It
Don’t rush or pressure your child to swallow pills—they might learn it eventually.
Until that happens, ask your doctor if they have another alternative for medicine.
Try to ask your doctor if they have any other tips to teach kids to swallow their pills.
If you have your own tip to make swallowing pills easier on kids, do share with us too!
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
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