To not understand what it means for a baby or toddler to have a temperature??

[inches890]

I have a one year old. I know this sounds ridiculous but I get so confused by temperatures.

If it’s over 37.5, does that mean they are DEFINITELY unwell? Could it not just mean they are hot?

Why is it important to get the temperature down with paracetamol? Does it cause further issues if the child remains too hot? I know it’s obviously uncomfortable so paracetamol would help that, but are there medical implications of having a temperature that isn’t brought down? Does something simple like wearing less clothes help too or is it an internal thing that can’t be regulated by that sort of measure?

My baby hasn’t been ill yet temperature wise and I do have a thermometer but I’m curious about these above!

It can be helpful to take your child's temperature now and again when they're well, just to get an idea of their normal baseline temperature. You'll also get to know how they react to a high temperature.

When DS was little he had a low-ish baseline temperature so if went above 37.5 that was high for him and he'd be quite unwell. DD on the other hand can be 38.5 and seem perfectly fine.