How to Take a Child's Temperature

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You can take a child's temperature in any of the following ways:

• Orally -- Place the thermometer under the child's tongue (with the mouth closed) for 3 minutes.
• Axillary -- Place the thermometer in the child's armpit for 5 minutes.
• Rectally -- If your pediatrician recommends the use of a rectal thermometer, discuss the proper procedure with him or her. Have your pediatrician demonstrate the correct use and reading of the temperature.