Healthy Living

Step-by-Step: Taking a Child’s Temperature by Mouth (Over 4 Years of Age)

Choose a preferred language

Remove the cap from the thermometer. Clean the tip of the thermometer with soap and water. Turn the thermometer on. Have your child open their mouth and lift their tongue. Place the tip of the thermometer under their tongue. Have your child close their mouth around the thermometer, leaving the tip under their tongue. Wait for the thermometer to beep to tell you it has successfully taken their temperature. Remove the thermometer from their mouth. Read the temperature on the thermometer. Clean the tip with soap and water. Dry the tip of the thermometer. Place the cap back onto the thermometer.

Featured in

Online Medical Reviewer: Adler, Liora, MD

Online Medical Reviewer: Watson, L Renee, MSN, RN

Date Last Reviewed: 07/01/2021

© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
user headset icon

Need Help? We're Here for You

Our Member and Recipient Services Team is here to help you understand your benefits, find care, or resolve concerns.

800-510-9132
quit smoking icon

Call NC Quitline

Need support to quit smoking, vaping, or to quit other nicotine products? You can receive support including medicines free of charge:

800-784-8669
car and bus icon

Schedule Transportation

Need transportation to a doctor's office, pharmacy, or other covered healthcare service? Contact us to arrange your ride.

800-510-9132
Stethoscope icon

Provider Directory

Need to find a provider like a Primary Care Physician, Specialist, OB/GYN, or a Psychiatrist? 

Provider Directory
Related Articles
Read article
Wellness
Step-by-Step: Taking a Child's Temperature in the Ear

This video shows the steps for taking your child’s temperature in the ear.

Read article
Wellness
Step-by-Step: Taking a Child’s Rectal Temperature (0-3 Years of Age)

This video shows the steps for taking your child’s rectal temperature.

Read article
Wellness
Step-by-Step: Taking a Child's Temperature Under the Arm

This video shows the steps for taking your child’s temperature under the arm.

Read article
Wellness
Baby's First Teacher

Watch this video to learn how to recognize your role in your baby's development as they grow.