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5 Tips to Prepare Your Child for a Doctor's Visit

11 March 2021

Edward Payne

Doctor's visits can be scary for many children because they do not know what to expect. If you have scheduled a doctor's appointment for your little one, you may be nervous about how he or she will react. However, you can take steps to make the process less intimidating for your child.

Here are a few tips to prepare your child for a doctor's visit.

Talk to Your Child About the Visit Ahead of Time

The last thing you want to do is tell your child about the doctor's visit at the last minute. It is better to inform your child about the visit a few days ahead of time. Let your child know what the visit will entail and answer all of his or her questions.

Be Honest

When discussing a doctor's visit with your child, it is important to be completely truthful. If your child, for example, asks you if the shot is going to hurt, do not just say that it will be pain-free. Instead, you can tell your child that the shot may hurt a tiny bit, but it will be over quickly.

If you are dishonest about the doctor's visit, it can make your child even more anxious and lose trust in what you say.

Role Play at Home

Many children are scared about visiting the pediatrician because they are unfamiliar with the process. One thing you can do is play doctor at home. Use a toy stethoscope to look into your child's ears, eyes, and mouth. Then, allow your child to be the doctor. 

Schedule the Appointment at the Right Time

When it comes to scheduling your child's doctor's appointment, timing is everything. For example, you do not want to schedule the visit during your child's usual nap or meal times. If your child comes to the visit hungry or tired, he or she may be more cranky.

Bring Comfort Items

Bringing your child's favorite toy or blanket to the doctor's appointment can offer comfort in an unfamiliar environment. If your child holds onto the item while the pediatrician performs an examination, he or she may feel calmer. You can also think about bringing an iPod with your child's favorite songs.

Taking your child to see a pediatrician is not always easy. However, if you follow these helpful tips, you may ease your child's anxiety and make the visit more pleasant for everyone.

Reach out to a pediatrician's office, such as BETTER FOOT CARE LLC, to schedule an appointment. 

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