Debbi wrote: So the colder weather and change of season has brought with it colds and coughs.

My toddler started with a runny nose, then came a fever and some coughing. The paediatrician checked and she has an ear infection, and has prescribed antibiotics. This is in liquid form (banana flavoured!) that we have to squirt in to her mouth by syringe. Simple, right?

Problem is, she will not take it at home. We literally have to hold her down (keep her arms down) and put a towel or huge bib over her because she screams, cries and spits it out.

It's so frustrating because she takes it fine at daycare (so we know it's not the taste, and she took it before when she had an ear infection when she was younger). 

Any ideas on how to make this easier!?

Hi Debbi,

I totally empathize with you!  None of my kids has ever made it easy for me to give them medication.  My 2 and a half year old has done the exact same thing as your daughter.  I have found that if I talk to her about it (a lot!) beforehand she is better at taking the medicine.  So, I'll tell her repeatedly throughout the day that she has to take medicine to feel better and that I know she's going to be a big girl and not cry, and that it's the same as at daycare, etc, etc.  I also bribe her :)  She knows that if she can take the medicine without having a fit she can have a small treat after.  Maybe not the best parenting style, but it works for me! 

Good luck...

Sandra