I always used an ear thermometer called the Thermoscan. If I could not get a rectal which was rare after the age of 8 months, I used the Thermoscan. (And who wants anything up their butt when they are already not feeling well.) I asked for it for a shower gift. They are kind of expensive but WELL worth the money if I had to purchase it myself. My pediatrican did not like me using this to report a reading to her. She said it was not accurate. (Once they turn to be a toddler I would really think there are a small percentage of them that actually sit still for that.) I did not care what she thought because this was the best I could do. I established that there was a fever and that was my concern. What I am saying is that it got the job done for me. Acurate to the degree or not, I know any fever is dangerous and taken seriously. I now with my three and a half year old use an oral digital thermometer. We practiced when we got it. Just like the Thermoscan. We made it a game so when it came time to use it when she was sick, she was past the anxiety of using the devices. I use the Thermoscan for reading her temp. when she is sleeping now. I also like to take a temp. when they are not sick just to get an idea of what their nornal temp. is usually. Good luck.