4 tips on how to prepare your child for a visit to the doctor

A variety of medical procedures and hospital visits can be more traumatic for children than parents think. While going to the doctor is not difficult for some children, for others it can be a very difficult test. It would seem that simple parts of health care, such as vaccinations or tests, can be of concern to many children and sometimes adults. Psychology Today has collected some tips for parents to help prepare your baby for a visit to the doctor.

Think about the plan of the visit in advance and acquaint the child with it

If you know that your child is waiting for a medical procedure that makes him nervous, make a joint plan for the day. Think about what your child will do on the way to the doctor. For example, she can read a book, listen to her favorite music, watch cartoons or play a game on her phone.

It is also worth discussing whether the child wants you to sit next to her at the reception. She may need your hugs, or she may want one of her parents to hold her hand. At the same time, there are children who prefer their relatives to sit at the other end of the room.

Keep calm

Sometimes the child's suffering increases the stress of the parents.

You can start to calm the child down unnecessarily, or talk too loudly. To avoid the following manifestations of anxiety, think of a strategy that allows you to stay calm:

• Take slow deep breaths.
• Listen to music for yourself. You can turn your favorite music in the headphones in one ear to hear your baby.
• Speak in a calm and quiet voice.
• If you can't stay calm, consider asking your child's doctor if you can leave the room during the procedure.

Choose an award in advance

The reward the toddler will focus on can be helpful in solving the problem.

The purpose of this process is to ensure that the child completes his or her medical procedure with less suffering and receives a reward for it.

Choose an award that suits your family. For example, it can be an evening of family games, the child's choice of a special treat, a small toy or extra time online.

Clearly state your expectations about what your child needs to do to be rewarded.

These expectations will vary depending on how nervous your child is and how difficult it is for him to control his behavior. You can warn your toddler that, for example, you can't shout or push a nurse or a doctor, but it's okay if you want to cry or ask for a minute to adjust.

Discuss how it all went

After the medical procedure is completed and everyone calms down, ask your child how she thinks everything went.

Praise your child for doing well.

If you have a problem, discuss it to avoid it next time.

Even if things didn't go well, find what worked well for your child. For example, she willingly came to a meeting or tried not to move.

Listen to your child's experience; realize that it was difficult for her. Don't say she doesn't have to feel that way.

If you feel that your child's fears are interfering with his or her health care or you have concerns about your child's emotional health, consult a pediatrician.