It's been a long time since we had a child at home. But our favorite pediatrician, Dr. Alan Greene, recommends the EarCheck Middle Ear Monitor, which uses sonar to check for ear infections, the number one reason kids need to see a doctor. Just slip the nose cone of the device into child's ear and press a button. The child hears a chirping noise but feels nothing--and you get a reading that indicates how well the eardrum is moving. A "Green" light means the eardrum is functioning well, and most likely your child does not have an ear infection. A "Red" reading suggests that there is fluid behind the eardrum, so a visit to the physician is needed. Further details on using the monitor can be found at Dr. Greene's Housecalls.

-- Tom Ferguson, M.D.

Ear Check
Middle Ear Monitor
$50
Available from Amazon