Planning Ahead for Children’s Doctor Visits
Amy Brandon
Child Care Program Communications
Taking your child to the doctor's office—whether for a “well child” visit, minor injuries, or childhood disease—begins early in life and continues throughout childhood. Common sense tells us that unexpected doctor visits or trips to the emergency room are distressing for children, but even ordinary check-ups can cause anxiety. With some planning, parents and caregivers can help ease those fears and make the experience a more positive one for their children and themselves.
Before you go:
• Tell your child about the appointment a day or two in advance. A week's notice is too long for young children because they forget easily. Remind your child the morning of or a few hours before the appointment.
• Explain and describe expectations. Even for young children, it is important to explain why they are going and briefly describe what the doctor will probably do. Present the check-up as a positive experience and portray the doctor as a friend who will help your child stay well so he or she can play and learn.
• Answer questions simply and honestly. Encourage your child to ask questions and don't hide the truth. If your child asks about getting shots or if any of the procedures will hurt, be honest. Explain that shots will feel like a “pinch” and only last a moment. Reassure him or her that you will be nearby.
• Act out what will happen. Through play, children will act out or predict what they think might happen, allowing parents to affirm their accuracies as well as clear up misconceptions. Use a doll or stuffed animal with your child as the “doctor” or role play a visit to the doctor's office together. Dramatize procedures such as:
- Getting weighed and measured.
- Looking into the mouth, ears, and nose.
- Listening to the heart beat.
- Tapping or pressing on the stomach, legs, and feet.
• Read up on the subject. Reading a book about visiting the doctor can help put your child at ease and open further dialogue. Some favorites include:
- Corduroy Goes to the Doctor by Don Freeman and Lisa McCue
- Felix Feels Better by Rosemary Wells
- Going to the Doctor by Anne Civardi
- My Doctor, My Friend by P. K. Hallinan
On the day of the visit:
• Bring a cherished toy or blanket. A favorite toy or “softie” from home will provide comfort to your child before, during, and after the visit. Also bring along some activities for the waiting room as a distraction.
• Be a role model. Children take their cues from adults. Stay positive and calm for your child even if you are concerned.
• Stay with your child. Part of children's fear is that they may be separated from their parents. Whenever possible, stay with your child. Research has shown that children who sit on a parent's lap (rather than on a table) while receiving a shot or medicine show less anxiety.
• Give your child a say. If possible, let your child choose which arm to receive the vaccination or which finger to have pricked for a blood test. Empowering your child with choices can help reduce anxiety and increase willingness to cooperate.
• Be patient. It is important to let children express physical and emotional pain. Expect your child to react to the stressful situation and acknowledge his or her feelings with comments like “It's okay to feel scared about getting a shot. It might hurt a little, but it will soon be over.” Allow your child to cry and reassure him or her with hugs.
• Give positive feedback after the visit. Tell your child how proud you are and how much he or she has grown.
By taking time to prepare children and make them more comfortable with doctor visits, parents can ease their children's and their own anxiety, have a positive doctor's office experience, and set the stage for a lifetime of wellness.