Daily body temperature in children: What is normal?

The “normal” body temperature in children is usually between 36.5 and 37.5 °C.

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

• Rectal (in the anus): 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

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

The daily temperature cycle

Body temperature follows a 24-hour cycle controlled by the circadian rhythm. Temperature is usually lowest in the morning and rises throughout the day. The highest value is often reached in the late afternoon or early evening. These fluctuations are completely normal and nothing to worry about. However, this natural rise can easily be mistaken for fever if misinterpreted.

CAUSES OF TEMPERATURE FLUCTUATIONS 

In addition to the natural circadian 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 to 37.5 °C.

Body temperature fluctuates above 37.5°C

A rise in body temperature can often indicate overheating, caused by over-clothing or prolonged exposure to very warm rooms. Covering the child or removing a layer of clothing often helps to lower the temperature. The temperature may also rise slightly after eating or taking a warm bath. Such temporary elevations usually normalize after a short time.

However, parents should be alert if the temperature rises above 38.0°C or if other symptoms such as malaise, weakness, or loss of appetite occur. In such cases, it is advisable to consult a doctor, especially for infants and young children.

Body temperature fluctuates below 36.5°C

Even a body temperature of 35.2°C in a child is usually not a cause for immediate concern, but it can indicate mild hypothermia. It could well be that the child is simply cold, which is primarily due to factors such as a cold environment, inadequate clothing, or prolonged exposure to cool rooms.

However, if the temperature remains consistently below 36°C or the child shows symptoms such as shivering, paleness, fatigue, or malaise, the temperature should be monitored. In such cases, it may be helpful to wrap the child in warmer clothing or move them to a warmer room and measure the temperature again after about 30 minutes.

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

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

With MARY by sticklett, parents can better learn about and understand their children's circadian rhythms. Regular, uncomplicated measurement and tracking of vital signs makes it possible to identify connections between body temperature, environmental influences, and the child's behavior. This makes it easy to determine what is normal and when action is actually needed.

Through this understanding, parents can often be reassured and avoid unnecessary, stressful doctor visits because they are aware of their child's natural rhythm.

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