How to Support and Educate Your Child for What's to Come
We know that visits to the hospital can be stressful and intimidating. An important thing to keep in mind when you're discussing upcoming hospital visits with your child is to keep things positive.
Be honest with them about what to expect and answer any questions they might have. Your physician or care manager will also be able to provide answers as needed. Remember that a hospital is usually an unknown place for a child and that can feel scary if they don't have any information going into it. By helping your child prepare, you can put them at ease and make their experience more comfortable and even pleasant.
Some tips for having these conversations with your child are:
Be honest. Answer your child’s questions openly and honestly.
Remain supportive. You are your child’s source of comfort and love.
Ask questions. Be sure to have a clear understanding of your child’s hospitalization.
Share with staff what is comforting to your child.
Read stories or watch videos with your child about going to the hospital.
Encourage doctor play. Allow your child to talk about their thoughts and feelings.
Talk about your child's upcoming treatment with them using simple words that they will understand.
Have these conversations within two days of the appointment. For young children, it can be difficult to comprehend time, so giving them the information close to the appointment date is important.
Allow your child to help pack. Let them choose a few favorite items to bring to the hospital.
Know what is comforting to your child and share those methods with the staff members helping to care for them.
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