If your child is sick and has been prescribed a prescription medication, you know just how difficult it can be to actually get them to take it. Below are three tips on how to get your child to take their prescription medicine so they'll be on the road to recovery quickly and with minimal fuss.

Ask Your Pharmacist to Add a Flavor to the Medicine

If your child is taking a liquid medication, you may want to consider asking your pharmacist like one from Nolita Chemists about flavoring options. Certain medications can have a bad taste and smell, making children reluctant to take them.

Many commonly prescribed pediatric medications, including antibiotics, can be safely flavored when the pharmacist is filling the prescription. This flavoring agent may cost you a few dollars more, but it can save both you and your child lots of time and stress.

Use a Reward System as a Long-Term Solution

If your child has been prescribed medication that they'll be taking for an indefinite amount of time, you may want to consider using a reward system.

Your child dislikes taking the medicine just as much as you hate forcing your child to. By adding a reward component, you can make it easier for both of you. Use a sticker chart to keep track of how many times in the past week they've taken their medication without complaint. After a certain number of consecutive days of no hassle, reward them with a small toy from the dollar store or a trip to the ice cream shop. Not only will your child have incentive, but the stickers will be a daily reminder of how close they are to their much-awaited treat.

Bypass the Tongue Altogether

If flavoring the medication isn't an option, consider using a small syringe or medicine dropper to bypass the tongue completely.

This is a great technique for toddlers and preschool age children who may have trouble being reasoned with. This can be done by one adult with the help of a highchair or car seat, or by two adults with one adult holding the child in their lap and facing the other adult. Gently squeeze your child's cheeks which will result in your child opening their mouth. Quickly squirt the medication into the back of the child's mouth. Then, gently stroke the child's throat, forcing them to swallow the medication. The majority of the medication won't even touch the tongue. Over time, your child will probably become accustomed to the process and not as reluctant to take the medication, since they know they'll barely even taste it.

It's difficult to see your child sick, which makes it even more frustrating when your child refuses to take the medication that will make them better. With the tips above, you can now make medicine time less of a hassle and help your child on the road to recovery with the least amount of stress.