Ask your doctor these questions:

• What is the drug and what is it for?
• Will there be a problem with other drugs my child is taking?
• How often and for how long does my child need to take it?
• What if my child misses a dose?
• What side effects does it have and how soon will it start working?

Read the label carefully, check that the dosage agrees with your doctor's instructions and check that it is safe for children. If you are in any doubt, ask the pharmacist or phone the doctor. Do not use the product if you don't understand what it is for - children are more sensitive to drugs than adults.

Watch your child carefully for a time after you have given them a dose of medicine, look out for side effects and if there is anything worrying you, call the doctor.

The most important thing is to give them the right dose at the right time. Easier said than done, however, especially when the child is younger than two.

For a baby or toddler, use a syringe and gently push the pediatric medicine into the side of the mouth. You may need two people for this, one to hold your baby's hands. Give them a chance to breath and swallow in between doses.

Another trick is to "hide" the medicine in some fruit juice - don't give them a lot of juice in case they're not that thirsty, just enough to disguise the medicine. You should check that the juice won't affect the medicine being given.

If your older child needs an injection of some sort, distract them and don't allow them to get worked up before the shot is administered. Take one of their favourite books along and point out pictures to them while the procedure is taking place.

It is also a good idea to check with your health insurance provider if your children are protected by your health insurance policy.