Daily body temperature in children: What is normal?

The guideline for "normal" body temperature in children is between 36.5 and 37.5 °C.

However, these values may vary slightly depending on the measurement method:

• Rectal (in the bottom): 36.6 to 38.0 °C
• Oral (in the mouth): 35.5 to 37.5 °C
• Axillary (under the armpit): 36.5 to 37.5 °C
• In the ear: 35.8 to 38.0 °C
• with MARY by sticklett (on the chest): 35.8 to 38.0 °C

Don't just look at individual values

Especially in childhood, body temperature can fluctuate somewhat higher than in adults, which indicates an adaptation of the child's metabolism to the environment.

Body temperature follows a 24-hour rhythm, controlled by the circadian rhythm. In the morning, the temperature is usually lowest and rises during the day. The highest value is often reached in the late afternoon or early evening. At night during sleep, the temperature drops again and can briefly rise slightly during dream phases. These fluctuations are completely normal and no cause for concern.

Observe the temperature trend

A natural increase can easily be mistaken for fever if it is not interpreted correctly. Therefore, it is important not to look at individual values only (these can often be confusing) but to observe the temperature trend over a longer period, e.g., throughout the night.

CAUSES OF TEMPERATURE FLUCTUATIONS

In addition to the natural daily rhythm, children's body temperature can also be influenced by physical activity, stress or emotional factors and can fluctuate above and below the normal range of 36.5 and 37.5 °C.

Body temperature fluctuates above 37.5°C

An increase in body temperature can often indicate heat buildup, due to too much clothing or prolonged stays in very warm rooms. It often helps to uncover the child or remove a layer of clothing to lower the temperature again. Also after eating, breastfeeding, physical exertion such as crying or a warm bath, the temperature can rise slightly. Such temporary increases usually normalize again after a short time.

However, parents should be vigilant if the temperature rises above 38.0 °C or if other symptoms such as discomfort, weakness, or loss of appetite occur. In such cases, it is advisable to constantly observe the temperature trend with MARY by sticklett and contact the pediatrician if it worsens, especially for infants under 3 months.

Body temperature fluctuates below 36.5°C

A body temperature of 35.2 °C in a child is usually no immediate cause for concern, but it can indicate mild hypothermia. It could well be that the child is simply cold, which is particularly favored by factors such as a cold environment, inadequate clothing, or prolonged stays in cool rooms.

However, if the temperature persistently remains below 35.5 °C or the child shows symptoms such as shivering, pallor, fatigue, or discomfort, the temperature should be monitored. In such cases, it may be advisable to dress the child warmer or bring them into a warmer room and constantly observe the temperature trend with MARY by sticklett.

If the low temperature persists or the child shows additional signs of discomfort, it is advisable to consult a doctor to rule out possible causes such as an infection or other health factors.

HOW PARENTS CAN LEARN TO UNDERSTAND THEIR CHILD'S BIORHYTHM:

With MARY by sticklett, parents can better get to know and understand their children's biorhythm. Regular, uncomplicated measurement and tracking of vital data allows them to recognize and correctly interpret correlations between body temperature, breathing patterns, movement patterns, and environmental influences.

Through this understanding, parents can be more at ease and avoid unnecessary, stressful doctor visits, as they have their child's natural rhythm in view.

Further information: What to do if my baby has a fever?