No child likes going to the Doctor but when your child is scared it can easily turn into a nightmare visit with a major meltdown this can put your child off visiting the doctor in the future and the parents themselves dreading that next visit. Going to the doctor may be something your child never enjoys, but let’s face it it’s a necessary part of a child’s life.
Based on our experiences as Nurses working with children and as a parent (Nurse Joanne) we have our top tips to help make the visit to the doctor easier for both parent and child.
1. Manage your own anxiety
All parents worry when their child is ill this is only natural, but it is important to manage your anxiety in the correct way. Parent’s anxiety is easily picked upon by their children. If you’re feeling overly anxious or have questions for the doctor and are uncertain that your child should hear those questions it is a good idea to take someone to the doctor’s visit with you so they can distract your child which will give you a chance to speak to the doctor about your concerns before the appointment begins.
2. Knowing what to expect can be a big help
Often children are imaging something bad is going to happen they may worry that it will hurt or they will have a shot every time they visit the doctor. Acknowledge to your child that you understand they are afraid of the unknown, but reassure them it will be over quickly and you will get through it together and you will be with them all the time.
Reading books and role play is an easy way to prepare your child what to expect. From a very young age, purchase a toy doctor’s kit, a white lab coat, and play pretend checkups, take turns to be the Doctor and the patient you can get their favorite cuddly toy checked too!!
Demonstrate how a doctor might examine their mouth, listen to the heartbeat, and check their ears. Use a weighing scale to show how the nurse may measure their weight and measure your Childs height frequently, so they get used to it. You would be surprised how many children are nervous when they step on the scales.
3. Bring a favorite cuddly toy to be examined
A beloved cuddly toy or doll might just be the answer in allowing the Dr to do a practise check-up; your child will see that nothing bad happens. This is something we do in the nursery clinic on a regular basis, the children visit the clinic and role play a pretend check up on the cuddly toys.
4. Ensure your child is involved in the process of visiting the Doctor
If the visit is not an emergency and just a routine visit you can talk to your child about scheduling the appointment, they can help make a list of symptoms and write down any questions to ask the Dr. Children will be reassured by their active role in their medical care.
This is something I did with my daughter from a very young age, in fact now age 10 my daughter walks into her Drs Office and explains all her symptoms herself.
5. Trust your instincts when choosing your child’s Doctor
When choosing a Doctor for your child the Doctor’s personality is also important some children will be afraid of any Doctor but if your child seems truly scared of the DR or you are not happy with them do not be afraid to change Drs. Ask for recommendations from other parents or other professions whose opinion you trust.
There’s probably nothing we can do to make a doctor’s appointments really fun and thoroughly enjoyable, but with a little planning and remembering the above tips, it is possible to make them less scary and an easier experience for all involved.
We will always have extremely fond and treasured memories of our girls time at Children’s Oasis. The teachers are so creative and fun, always thinking of new ways to engage the children and the thoughtful and varied outdoor areas were always a favourite of theirs. We loved the intimate, friendly feel and all the little extras which makes it feel that you are part of a community. Thanks for everything, we really couldn’t have asked for a better start and we will miss you all.
What I love about Children's Oasis is how well looked after my children are and how comfortable they feel. They know the names of most of the staff and will always say 'hi' and often stop for a chat. It's a calm and nurturing environment.
We love children’s Oasis Nursery. It has been a part of our lives for over 8 years with both our girls going there. The staff are all amazing and really care for the children.
Que alegría haberlos encontrado! Estamos muy agradecidos de comenzar los años escoltarse de nuestra hija con su apoyo! Desde las maestras, hasta la directora y el ambiente de la escuela tuvimos una experiencia fenomenal y estamos entusiasmados de volver en Septiembre! Muchas gracias Children's Oasis!!!
Both my boys were at Children Oasis from the time they were 2 and until they were 4 years old; first attending the Spanish Programme and then, FS1. Both classes were great! The teachers are incredibly professional and caring. The communication with the parents is excellent and reports are detailed. They make learning fun and engaging for the kids who learn through hands-on activities and play. The facilities are beautiful with lots of stimulating and educational books and toys. I couldn't ask for more during those early years for my children!
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