For children with broken bones, sprains, or strains, ibuprofen (Advil and Motrin) may work better than acetaminophen (Tylenol), according to a new study in Pediatrics. "Both act on pain receptors in the body, but ibuprofen also has an anti-inflammatory effect that helps to decrease swelling," says Ting An Lee, M.D., a pediatrician and pain specialist at the Children's Hospital at Montefiore in New York.

For a fever, though, choose whichever medication is most effective for your child. And just remember: Never give ibuprofen to an infant less than 6 months old, and always check with your pediatrician about dosage before giving your child any medication.