How to Prepare Your Child for a Hospital Visit
Visits to the hospital can be scary and intimidating for young children. But with the support of a caring adult, children can feel more comfortable with the different sights and sounds as they explore the hospital.
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Instructions
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Call the hospital you are planning to visit and find out about scheduling a tour.
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Accompany your child on the visit in the hospital.
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Consider the child's age and maturity when you discuss the visit to the hospital.
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Talk about what they see, hear and smell, particularly with very young children.
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Answer children's questions honestly and simply. If you don't know the answer, tell them so and explain that you will try to find out.
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Ask staff if it is OK to touch equipment. Children learn through exploring. Often, there are separate pieces of equipment that staff use for this purpose.
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Inquire whether there is a Child Life Department, and if so, introduce yourself to the child life specialist. A child life specialist will help children and family members learn about the hospital.
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Inquire whether there is a playroom for young children or a teen room for adolescents to connect.
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Reassure the child regarding policies about family members staying close to a child who is being admitted. Often, parents can be nearby when children are anesthetized and in the recovery room when they wake up.
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Inquire about a child bringing personal belongings for admittance to the hospital. Children are usually encouraged to bring favorite pajamas, special blankets, toys or whatever they need for comfort.
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Respect a child's reaction to the hospital. Some are very interested, while others are passive. Each is processing information in his or her own individual way.
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Tips & Warnings
Parents recommend reading a book with their children about another child's experience in the hospital prior to and after the visit.
