by Katherine Born

Created on: August 27, 2009

If you're getting ready for baby, the Boy Scout motto of "Be Prepared" is not just a motto, it's words to live by. And you don't have to be a pessimist to recognize that children inevitably require a well-stocked medicine chest or kit. While some of the items will hopefully not be necessary at first, you will certainly need them as baby turns into toddler (bandaids!). You probably already have several items already. Some will be appropriate for baby; some might not be, so read below for details. If you don't already have a "medicine chest" in an easily accessible child-safe place, now is the time to make and stash it - I keep mine at the top of my linens closet right next to the bathroom, which is where all booboos get fixed. It is a good idea to keep your kit near soap and water, as so many childhood mishaps need a ready supply of both.

The items listed below are separated into two categories: Must Have and Good to Have on Hand. Since each child and each parent are unique, you may find some items indispensible for your child while your best friend never uses or needs it. The Must Have list is for items that every child will need at some point. The Good to Have list is for items that can become necessary but you can wait on them if you like. Getting ready for babies can be expensive. One more note before getting started: Since keeping medications straight can be challenging, the active ingredient is listed with the brand name following in ().

"Must Have"

* Fever Medication. Some notes before listing specific kinds - recent research has shown that alternating acetaminophen with iboprofen results in better fever management than using either alone. Do not use them at the same time! Use one, wait the 3-4 hours usually recommended before another dose, and then use the other. Dosages for children are by weight, not age, so an adult medication can be used if the proper amount for the child's body weight is calculated. Consult a doctor for this, as overdosing on pain relievers is the biggest cause of liver damage in North America. Also, fevers are very common in children as they are the body's prime defensive weapon against illness. Serious consideration should be given as to whether or not medicating a fever is even necessary. Here is a good resource of information on when fevers in children need a doctor, a medication or nothing except comfort measures. And finally, never ever give a child ASA (acetylsalicylic acid, Aspirin) as it can cause Reye's syndrome.

- Acetaminophen

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