A child should not be put to bed with a bottle. A bottle should not be propped in bed. Those practices may cause the liquid from the bottle to go up a small tube leading to the middle ear, causing middle ear fluid. Cigarette smoke increases a child s chance of middle ear disease. If possible, put children in small rather than large groups of children.
Colds pass more easily in large groups, and colds in young children can lead to middle ear fluid.
These suggestions will help all children listen better. Face your child and speak clearly with a normal tone and normal loudness. Use visual cues such as moving your hands and showing pictures in addition to using speech. Seat your child near adults and children who are speaking. Speak clearly and repeat important words, but use natural speaking tones and pattern.