Quick answer: A normal temperature for a baby is roughly 36.5°C to 38°C. Below about 36.5°C is on the low side, 38°C and above is a fever, and 39°C or more is a high fever. A baby under 3 months with a reading of 38°C or higher should be seen by a doctor straight away.
When your baby feels warm, it helps to know exactly what the number on the thermometer means. This guide gives you a simple temperature chart, explains how readings differ by method, and shows when a temperature needs medical attention.
Baby temperature chart
Use this as a general guide for babies and young children. Always read it alongside how your child looks and behaves.
| Reading | What it means | General guide |
|---|---|---|
| Below 36.5°C | On the low side | Re-check; warm your baby gently. Seek advice if a young baby stays low. |
| 36.5°C to 37.9°C | Normal | No fever. Normal daily variation. |
| 38°C to 38.9°C | Fever | Watch your child. Under 3 months, see a doctor now. |
| 39°C and above | High fever | Seek medical advice, especially under 6 months or if unwell. |
A normal range of about 36.5°C to 38°C is the standard used by Australian health services.
Does the measurement method change the number?
Yes, slightly. The same child can read a little differently depending on where you measure:
- Forehead (non-contact infrared): fast and easy, ideal for sleeping babies.
- Ear (tympanic): quick and generally reliable in older babies and children.
- Underarm (armpit): simple and safe, but can read slightly lower than the body's core temperature.
Because methods vary, the golden rule is to use the same thermometer and method each time so you are comparing like with like. See our guide on how to use a forehead thermometer correctly for accurate readings.
When a temperature needs a doctor, by age
Under 3 months: any reading of 38°C or above needs prompt medical attention, even with no other symptoms.
3 to 6 months: see a doctor around 39°C, or sooner if your baby seems unwell.
Over 6 months: the number matters less than the whole picture. Seek advice if your child is very drowsy, has trouble breathing, has a rash that does not fade under pressure, is not drinking, has a fever lasting more than two to three days, or simply does not seem right.
For the full explanation of fever and what to do, read what is a normal temperature for a baby, and when is it a fever.
Checking temperature the easy way
A reliable thermometer makes tracking a temperature simple. The Elle TENS infrared thermometer gives a non-contact forehead reading in about a second, with a fever alert and a memory recall so you can see whether a temperature is rising or settling.
Frequently asked questions
What is the normal temperature range for a baby?
About 36.5°C to 38°C. A reading of 38°C or above is a fever.
Is 37.2°C normal for a baby?
Yes. 37.2°C sits comfortably within the normal range and is not a fever.
What temperature is too high for a baby?
38°C and above is a fever, and 39°C or more is a high fever. Under 3 months, 38°C needs a doctor straight away.
Why is my baby's underarm reading lower than the forehead?
Underarm readings often run slightly lower than core temperature. That is normal. Stick to one method so your readings are comparable.
Does a baby's temperature change during the day?
Yes. It is usually a little lower in the morning and higher in the evening, and can rise after feeding, bathing or active play.
Sources
Healthdirect Australia, Fever and high temperature in children and babies. Pregnancy, Birth and Baby, Fever in babies. The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne, Fever in children. Raising Children Network, High temperature or fever in children.
This article is general information only and is not a substitute for medical advice. If you are worried about your child, contact your GP, call Healthdirect on 1800 022 222, or in an emergency call 000.
Track temperature with confidence
The Elle TENS infrared thermometer gives fast, non-contact readings with a fever alert and memory recall.
