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How should parents check children for ticks?

Check a child's whole body after possible exposure, including the scalp, hairline, around and behind the ears, under the arms, waist, groin and behind the knees.

Reviewed by VuxLore® Knowledge Team For Parents and carers

Short answer

Check a child's whole body after possible exposure, including the scalp, hairline, around and behind the ears, under the arms, waist, groin and behind the knees.

At a glance

Children may not notice a small attached tick. A calm, systematic check in good light is more reliable than a quick glance at exposed skin.

Key takeaways

• Explain the check calmly and protect the child's privacy.

• Use a comb or separate hair in small sections when checking the scalp.

• Check clothing and outdoor equipment too.

Make the check routine

After play, camping or walking in possible tick habitat, change out of outdoor clothing and check from head to toe. Ask the child about any new tender, itchy or unusual area, while remembering that a tick bite may be painless.

Get a clear view

Small ticks can be difficult to distinguish from skin marks. Bright light and careful inspection are useful; avoid pulling at an uncertain mark until you can see what it is.