Most minor stomach aches in children are not serious and require no treatment, except maybe some tender loving care. The most common reason that a child might have a stomach ache is constipation. Please see the constipation section of this website that covers this topic. “Have a bowel movement and you will feel better”, is a favorite saying of mine.
Stomach aches can also be associated with viral gastroenteritis (vomiting and diarrhea). Just before the diarrhea begins, many children will complain of stomach aches. Please see the section on vomiting and diarrhea for more information.
A child should be evaluated by the doctor if she should have a stomach ache associated with fever, pain with urination, persistent vomiting, or if the stomach ache is severe. Severe stomach aches associated with anorexia (no appetite) are worrisome for appendicitis and are potentially serious. Please see the section on acute abdominal pain on this website. Children with these symptoms should be evaluated right away by the physician.