When a child’s in pain, everyone suffers. Next time an ache hits, use this chart to assess and help your child. It’s based on recommendations from Jennifer Stinson, a clinical nurse specialist at The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto; Carl von Baeyer, a psychologist at the University of Saskatchewan; and Caring for Kids (Key Porter), a reference guide developed by Drs. Norman Saunders and Jeremy Friedman of Sick Kids. If your child has a pain that doesn’t go away over time or is particularly intense, however, consult a doctor as soon as possible.

The Pain: Headache
The Culprit: Kids often suffer from anxiety-provoked tension headaches. A long car ride, not eating and plugged sinuses can also trigger head pain.
The Fix: At the first sign of pain, offer an age-appropriate dose of acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Call a doctor if pain is accompanied by vomiting or blurred vision.

The Pain: Teething
The Culprit: Teeth pushing through the nerve-packed gum area hurts babies and toddlers alike.
The Fix: Massage her gums with your finger or give her a cold washcloth or teething
ring (check that it has no leaks). Aceta­minophen drops can also dull the pain.

The Pain: Sore throat
The Culprit: Throat soreness typically signals a common cold, but inflamed tonsils, difficulty swallowing and fever could also be symptoms of strep throat.
The Fix: Give plenty of cool liquids but no lozenges for younger children. Suspect strep? Go to the doctor for a diagnostic swab and antibiotics if needed.

The Pain: Neck & back pain
The Culprit: This may mean strain from overloaded backpacks (often slung over one shoulder) or too many hours at a computer console.
The Fix: Invest in a good backpack and insist your child use both straps if that’s the design. Reduce screen time and check the ergo­nomics of your computer station at home.

The Pain: Needle pain
The Culprit: Puncturing a vein hurts, and bruising muscle tissue smarts even more – ouch!
The Fix: Apply a topical anesthetic such as Ametop or an EMLA patch in advance. Otherwise, distract them during the process – bubble blowing, anyone?

The Pain: Stomach ache
The Culprit: Abdominal pain can signal anything from overeating at dinner to appendicitis to a urinary tract infection.
The Fix: Have your child lie down with his knees tucked up to his chest. If pain is severe and accompanied by vomiting, diarrhea or any other symptoms, see a doctor.

The Pain: Leg pains
The Culprit: Muscle fatigue or twinges can be brought on by growing bones.
The Fix: Try a leg rub, a hot bath or water bottle,
a cuddle or a chat in bed. (No need for drugs, as the pains usually go away on their own in 20 minutes or so.)