Taking Medicine

Children's Literature - Marilyn Courtot

Taking medicine as an adult always raises questions in my mind—what will it really do, will I have an adverse reaction, how safe is this drug? Our young boy has taken medicines and thinks they are like magic. Cough syrup helps him stop coughing, a cream stops his rash from itching and certain shots have brought down his fever. He decides to play doctor by giving his teddy bear some medicine. He doesn't seem to have any trouble finding medicines around the house (parents, there is a real message here). His mother is angry and tells him that he is never to play with medicines. The text and illustrations explain that some medicines need to be taken on a certain schedule. Next the story turns to a cough that moves from Dad to son, only the son ends up with an ear infection and has to go to the doctor and get prescription medicine to help him cure his ear infection. Another message is that even though you may feel better you sometimes have to finish the medicine to make sure that the infection is completely cured. Also kids learn that not all ills require medicines to help you get better—sometimes a good rest is all that is needed. The text closes by reminding readers that good food and exercise are also keys to good health. The book concludes with "Notes for Parents and Teachers." The note summarizes the story and points out what the message is. This title and others in the "Looking After Me" series meet K-4 health education standards in Canada and the United States. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot