Baby at the doctor's. How to prepare a toddler for a visit
The tests, the queue and the uncertainty surrounding the results and diagnosis - this can make us anxious. A visit to the doctor can be a stressful event even for an adult. For a child, even a simple check-up with the paediatrician is often quite a challenge. You have to step out of your comfort zone, undress and follow instructions. The child is just learning the rules of the world, and is also showing his emotions and learning how to control them. To make it a little easier for your child to experience this new event for them, it is a good idea to prepare them accordingly.
How do you prepare a young child for a doctor's appointment?
Of course, it is difficult to explain the situation when we have a newborn or a baby. In the case of such young children, it is good ensure their comfort. If there are no contraindications, it is a good idea to feed the baby beforehand and ensure that he or she has a dry nappy. When choosing clothes for the day, it is a good idea to choose a set that can be easily taken off and dressed again.
How to support your preschooler?
In the case of an older child, the issue is somewhat more complex. The young patient may feel fear, anxiety or anger. That is why it is so important to prepare in advance and talk about what a doctor, a nurse does, why there are tests, vaccinations, why it is sometimes necessary to take blood. A good way is use of play elements, They can be used as a patient for all kinds of ailments: too high a temperature, fractures, stomach aches or headaches. Plush toys and dolls are great for treating patients with various ailments: a high temperature, a fracture, a stomach ache or a headache. Syringes, bandages, plasters: You can create your own set at home or consider buying a ready-made one.
The child looks at the parent
Our attitude is also very important. If this is only possible, plan the day of the visit so that it has a calm flow, without haste or nerves. Our cheerful attitude can really help a child. How holistically we present the topic of health in our daily conversations is also crucial. Phrases like: don't eat so many sweets or you will get a stomach ache and go to hospital In the long run, they do more harm than good.
And finally, the most important. We listen to the child, when he talks about his fears and anxieties. Let us give him the right to report the fact that something hurts, something is uncomfortable. Let's also not lie to the little one by saying, for example, that drawing blood doesn't hurt anything; instead, let's explain and describe the procedures as accurately as possible in language the child understands.
How to tame a preschooler's fear of the doctor, paediatrician?
- Playing doctor: use your child's favourite toys.
- Honest conversation: don't avoid the subject of research or the doctor.
- Avoid scaring the doctor: this breeds fear and makes the time of the medical visit very difficult.
At Fairgreen Surgery we care about the health of patients of all ages, including the youngest!