Going to the doctor or being in the hospital can be a strange and scary experience for a child and for the family.  To help make this a successful experience there are many things you can do.  As a parent you know your child better than anyone else and this puts you in a unique position.  With this knowledge you can help your child prepare for this new, and potentially frightening experience.  Remember that before, during and after the experience are all-important times to discuss things with your child.

• Listen to concerns
• Reading books about the hospital and providing information
• Being HONEST - it builds trust
• Staying with the child if possible
• Planning a "celebration" for homecoming.

• Compare children (Susie can do it herself).
• Pity or shame children (big boys don't cry).
• Make promises you may not be able to keep (Mommy will be here every minute).
• Talk about the child as if they are not in the room.

Choices:

Children gain a sense of control and feel less scared when they feel mastery of the medical experience.  Children need honesty and to be allowed to have an active role by being offered choices when possible.  A choice might be "Do you want to have apple juice or grape juice with your medicine?"  A choice is NOT "Are you ready for your medicine now?"

Play:

Play is an important way to provide some normal activity for the child in the hospital.  Play may be offered in an activity room or at the child's bedside.  Opportunities may be available for games, puzzles, books, crafts, etc.  Some children are more comfortable with items familiar to them, such as toys or games brought from home.  Play serves a number of purposes such as:

• Allowing choices
• Control and manipulation of materials
• Safe expression of aggression, hostility or fear
• Trying out adult roles
• Socialization
• Diversion from worry and stress
• Sense of accomplishment
• Creativity
• Cognitive development

Talking about Health Care Experiences:

A visit to the hospital can be a learning experience for the child and the family.  It is important to talk to your child about past and upcoming visits to the doctor or the hospital to provide information and clarify misunderstandings.  The following are some suggestions to help you talk to your child about health care experiences:

• Gather accurate information
• Be HONEST
• Talk before and after the experience
• Be prepared for emotional (scary) and physical (discomfort) aspects
• Repeat information
• Be careful of misleading or confusing language (big words or words with dual meanings)
• Use hands-on materials
• Be ready to discuss tough topics, such as pain or separation
• Involve siblings
• Write down questions to ask the doctor or nurse
• Take part in your child's care
• Remember: Parts of the medical experience may be fun and a learning experience.

With honesty and open communication you and your child can together make the health care experience a success.  Remember that the doctors and nurses are there to help.  Please let us know what we can do to improve your experience.