Pills or Levels
What are the practice pills made of?
The primary ingredient is sugar (dextrose) made to pharmaceutical standards. All ingredients used are inactive. The pills do not contain any of the top allergens including milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, and soybeans. Additionally they are gluten free, gelatin free, vegan and do not include any form of red dye.
What should I do if I run out of practice pills?
Take any extra pills of the same pill size from a previously completed level. If you run out of those, take the same pill size from a future level. In the unlikely circumstance that you still run out, you can order individual levels from our website.
How many practice pills are included in the Pill Skills Beginner Kit?
The kit has over 180 practice pills with each level/size combination having 8-10 pills. Note that the kit includes extra practice pills used to help build confidence, therefore not all pills will be consumed.
Can I attempt more than one level per day?
It is recommended to try only one level per day. The kit is designed to build upon positive experiences. When more than one level is attempted per day, there is a greater risk of failure and a negative experience.
Completing a Level or Practice Session
When does a practice session end?
A practice session ends in one of two ways. The first is if you successfully complete the level. The second is if the 10 minute timer expires prior to completion of the level.
If I finish a level before the 10 minute timer expires, should I move onto the next one?
It is recommended to attempt only one level per day. We want you to end with success. If you rush into the next level, you risk frustration from either too long of a practice session or by the inability to complete that next level.
In order to complete a level, do I need to finish all of the pills included?
No, in order to complete a level you must swallow 2 pills in a row of each size for that given level. Any pills remaining are there for extra practice or for unsuccessful attempts.
Intended Use of Product
What age is this product recommended for?
The product is intended for 3 years and older. However, if you think your child is ready, they can be taught sooner. Whether young or old, you can benefit from the Pill Skills Beginner Kit.
Can my child complete the kit alone?
We recommend that you sit alongside your child when completing the kit. That way you can encourage them and give positive feedback when learning this new skill.
Can a single Pill Skills Beginner Kit be shared with multiple people?
No. Each kit is designed with enough practice pills for only one user.
If I currently struggle swallowing pills can I still use the kit?
Yes, the kit is designed for anyone; although, those who have previously struggled may experience greater difficulty. However, people that had previous pill swallowing difficulties have seen improvement at swallowing pills and success in our kit.
Do you have to drink water/another liquid when trying to swallow the pills, especially the smaller ones?
Yes. You should always drink liquid when learning how to swallow the pills.
What To Do If Struggling
Should I use a new pill after a failed attempt?
It is recommended to start with a fresh pill if it feels like the previous one is dissolving. Otherwise, you can try again with the same pill.
What if I do not complete a level?
It is okay if you do not complete a level; it is all part of the learning process. However, if unsuccessful you should repeat that same level the following day during your next practice session. You can also try using a Helpful Hint.
What should I do if I have failed multiple days in a row?
If you are stuck on a level and have tried a variety of the Helpful Hints, try practicing an already completed level to build your confidence. We suggest trying the same helpful hint multiple times in a row before declaring it unsuccessful. Practice daily and avoid skipping days for best success.
What if I cannot reach level G of the Pill Skills Beginner Kit?
If level G cannot be reached, still recognize the success you had and the progress made towards pill swallowing. Each level completed shows that you are improving. However, if you experience extreme difficulties, consider consulting a physician to see if there are any underlying medical conditions.
General Pill Swallowing
Why should I teach my child how to swallow pills?
Children are taught how to tie their shoes, say their ABCs, and brush their teeth among many other common life skills. It is just as, if not more, important to teach your child how to swallow pills proactively in order to create a positive, stress-free learning environment. By doing so, they can avoid a negative experience, preventing them from becoming part of the 40% of adult Americans who struggle or cannot swallow pills.
Is it okay to cut, chew, crush, or mix my medication with food?
Depending on the type of medication, if cut, chewed, crushed or mixed with food, it can lead to decreased effectiveness. Time release or coated pills should not be broken apart. It can lead to a higher risk of side effects and potential overdose.
Why do I struggle to swallow pills?
You can struggle swallowing pills for a multitude of reasons. One-third of people who struggle experience gagging, choking, or vomiting. Another reason is a built up psychological barrier based on a fear of swallowing pills, often stemming from past negative experiences. In few cases, the inability to swallow pills can be linked to an anatomical barrier, such as dysphagia, or temporary conditions, like antibiotics or chemotherapy.