text: Weight trumps ageAlways work out the correct dose according to your child's weight rather than their age.
  Is it necessary?If your child has a fever, many medical professionals now recommend you hold off on giving paracetamol or ibuprofen as fever is one of the ways our bodies fight infection. Use your judgement on this because if your child is really uncomfortable, then it may be wise to medicate.
  Check and double-checkDon't guess how much you're giving. The difference between 5ml and 6ml is a whopping 20%.
  24-hour watchThese analgesics have a maximum amount which can be administered in a 24-hour period. This amount should never be exceeded.
  Use the measure provided And if you can't use the measure provided, at least use a very accurate metric measure.
  Know when to see the doctor If your child is getting sicker, seems very unwell, has a rash, breathing problems or convulsions, or a fever which has lasted more than 24 hours, or if you're worried, seek help.
  Don't do it in the dark It can be easy to misread the dosage in the middle of the night when .6ml can appear to be 6ml.
  Communicate the medicating Double-dosing happens when each parent administers medication unaware that the other has. Make sure your partner or any carers know that you've given an analgesic and write down when the next dose can be administered, if necessary.
  Keep all medication out of reach of children While every parent knows this, it's that one time you left the bottle next to the bed that your child manages to find it.
  Children and the flu Baby's cold and cough This article was written by Fiona Baker for Kidspot, Australia's best family health resource. Sources include Choice and Parenting and Child Health.