A fever is usually defined as oral temperature higher than 99.5 or a rectal temperature exceeding 100.4, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP). Fevers in children are primarily caused by bacteria and infections from cold and flu viruses, ear infections or strep throats. When your child has a fever it's a sign that her body is waging war against an infection. Certain home remedies can make your child feel more comfortable as she fights off a fever.
Liquids
A child with a fever should consume plenty of fluids to cool off the body and prevent dehydration, according to the AAFP. Drinking plain water and eating ice pops and clear soup will all suffice. If your child has lost her appetite, don't insist that she eat something as long as she is taking in an adequate amount of fluids. Do not serve your child a lot of fruit or apple juice and refrain from giving young kids sports drinks, advises the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
Comfort
Keep your child comfortable by setting your home thermostat between 70 and 74 degrees. If your child's bedroom is stuffy, use a fan to help circulate the air. It's also important to dress him in light clothing since too many wraps can lock-in body heat and increase his fever, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Placing an extra blanket over your child is fine if he has the the chills.
Rest & Relaxation
A child with a fever should get a lot of rest and take it easy, but he doesn't necessarily need to be bed-ridden or confined to his room. It's usually fine to allow your child to move around the house, although he shouldn't overexert himself, according to the AAP.
Sponge Bath
A sponge bath may help lower a child's fever. The AAP suggests running 1 to 2 inches of lukewarm water in the bathtub, baby bath or basin. Place your wrist or the back of your hand in the water to make sure it isn't too hot or cold. Cold water can cause shivering and raise your child's temperature, according to the National Institutes of Health. Use a sponge or fresh washcloth to gently rub a sheet of water over her arms, legs and trunk. The AAP says sponging will reduce the fever by one to two degrees in less than 1 hour.
