Here are 7 helpful tips for making a visit to the doctor’s office as comfortable for your child as possible:
1. Warn you child about the visit. Telling your little one beforehand will give them time to mentally prepare. It will also teach them to trust you. You don’t have to tell them a week before, the night or the morning before should be fine.
2. Explain the purpose of the visit. Let your child know that the doctor is looking to see how they are growing, or if they are sick. Tell them the doctor is trying to help them to feel better.
3. Walk them through what will happen. Tell them the doctor will look in their eyes and ears and listen to their heart beat. If they need shots too, let them know that too.
4. Read some books about other children going to the doctor. Your child will benefit from books that put them at ease. Books help them to know that it’s a normal part of life, and every child goes through the same thing.
5. Make sure your child is well rested. Schedule the appointment for a time of day when your child is generally happy. Make sure your child gets a good night’s sleep.
6. Arrive early. Your children will feel more comfortable if they aren’t rushed and get comfortable with the doctor’s office. Many offices have toys, fish tanks and interesting things for your kids to look at.
7. Concentrate on the good. Explain to them that your doctor’s office gives stickers or a sweeties for good behaviour. You could also promise and outing afterwards, like to the library or the park.
Shots, nurses and exam rooms aren’t exactly a fun field trip for your kids, but these tips can make a visit to the doctor a lot less painful for you and your child.
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