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August is recognized as National Wellness Month, providing a great opportunity to think about how to help your children prepare for their visits to the pediatrician. It’s an undeniable fact that kids typically don’t look forward to a trip to the doctor. Whether they are going for their routine check-up or because they are unwell, visits often involve shots, physical examinations, or other tests that can be uncomfortable. Fortunately, there are several ways parents can help ease any anxiety their children might feel prior to these appointments. Here are expert recommendations:
Notify Them Ahead of Time
Inform your children about the pediatrician visit, but avoid giving them too much notice. Experts recommend telling them about two days in advance. “Letting your child know they have a doctor’s appointment coming up a couple of days ahead,” advises registered nurse Marsha Durkin, “can help ease their anxiety.” Providing too much advance notice could cause them to overthink the situation, leading to unnecessary worry.
Describe What to Expect
Give your kids a clear picture of what will happen during their appointment. Family therapist Raffi Bilek suggests, “Provide specific details of what your child will see and do at the doctor’s office to help them feel more at ease when they arrive.” Ms. Durkin agrees, noting that being well-informed about the upcoming medical visit can significantly alleviate their fears. Parents should describe the waiting room, exam room, the tools the doctor will use, and how those instruments might feel. She also emphasizes the importance of explaining that some equipment, like the blood pressure cuff and stethoscope, may feel unusual or uncomfortable.
Prepare tweens and teens for the possibility that the pediatrician may discuss developmental topics with them privately during their annual check-ups. When doing so, stress the significance of being open. “Remind them that the doctor is a trusted person,” says pediatrician Dr. Julia Carlson, “and that whatever they discuss will remain confidential.”
Discuss the Importance of the Visit
It is crucial to explain to your children the reason for their pediatrician visit in language they can understand. If they are unwell, clarify that the doctor is there to help them feel better. Ms. Durkin suggests saying, “The doctor needs to look at your body to figure out how to help you feel better.” For routine check-ups, explain that seeing the pediatrician is an essential component of maintaining good health. Child psychologist Dr. Julie Morrison recommends using the analogy of an oil change or car inspection: “Children understand that cars need regular maintenance; visiting the doctor for a check-up serves a similar preventative purpose.”
Answer Their Questions Honestly
If your children have inquiries, respond to them fully and truthfully, including questions about possible discomfort. “While it may seem easier to tell your child that the exam won’t hurt,” says Ms. Durkin, “they may feel misled if they later discover otherwise.” If you’re unsure about any question, acknowledge it. For instance, Ms. Durkin suggests saying, “I can’t say for certain whether you’ll need a shot. The doctor will determine what’s necessary after examining you.”
Explain what the visit will entail and why they are going, but avoid excessive detail. “Over-discussing the appointment,” Dr. Carlson states, “may make it seem more significant than it actually is.”
Stay Calm and Positive
Children tend to reflect their parents’ emotions, so it’s essential to maintain a calm and optimistic attitude. “If you are anxious about the appointment,” Dr. Carlson cautions, “your children will likely pick up on that and feel anxious too.” Conversely, if “you remain calm,” pediatrician Dr. Chrystal de Freitas notes, “your child will understand that there is nothing to fear.” However, it’s important to avoid offering too much reassurance, as Dr. Nina Kaiser points out that excessive reassurance might unintentionally convey that the situation is more concerning than you portray.
Dr. Haas is also the author of a children’s book. Find it here.
