By Kimberly Williams | Contributor
While many view COVID-19 as primarily affecting adults, children are also at risk and may need to be tested. Given the widespread anxiety surrounding the pandemic, kids might feel particularly uneasy about undergoing testing.
“Kids don’t know what the test is going to be like,” explains Jennifer Roady, MS, CCLS, Supervisor of Child Life Services at Children’s Health. “As a Child Life Specialist, part of my role is to assist children in overcoming any fears associated with medical procedures, and the COVID-19 test is no exception.”
COVID-19 testing typically involves taking a swab from the back of the nasal passages, with the sample sent to a lab for analysis. If your child requires a coronavirus test, Roady recommends the following steps to alleviate their fears and help them get ready.
Tips to prepare children for a COVID-19 test
1. Remain calm.
No matter how old your child is, one of the best ways to alleviate their fear is for parents to stay calm and supportive.
“Children can sense when their parents are anxious,” says Roady. With the vast amount of information available online, it’s understandable that parents may feel overwhelmed by potentially inaccurate information about COVID-19. While it’s natural to feel apprehensive if your child needs testing for COVID-19, take a moment to compose yourself before discussing the situation with them.
2. Prepare yourself.
Gather information from trustworthy sources to ready both yourself and your child for the testing process. Reliable sources include the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and local health departments, which can provide accurate details about COVID-19 and testing procedures. Being well-informed can help alleviate fears.
Once you have acquired accurate information, guide your child on what to anticipate during the test.
3. Tell your child what they can expect.
For younger children, provide easy-to-understand and concise information about the testing process. You might outline the procedure in simple terms, such as:
– We are going to the doctor.
– At the doctor’s office, you will sit on my lap, and I’ll give you a big hug.
– A nurse wearing a gown and a special mask will gently insert a cotton swab in your nose and wiggly it around a bit.
Ask the healthcare provider or technician administering the test to also describe the process step-by-step. Knowing what to expect can make children feel more at ease.
Although the COVID-19 test may be uncomfortable and feel as if chlorine is rushing up their nose, it’s crucial to be honest with your child instead of saying it won’t cause any pain. You can explain that it might sting or be a bit uncomfortable. Roady suggests saying to younger kids, “It is going to hurt for a second” or “It’s going to be super-fast, and we can count while we do it.”
4. Tell your child they are not in trouble.
It’s crucial to communicate to your child that they are not in trouble. Explain that this test is necessary to ensure their health. Even if the test is momentarily painful, it’s for their benefit.
5. Provide information based on your child’s age.
Younger children don’t need to grasp all the intricate details of COVID-19, while older children (aged 12 and up) can handle more in-depth discussions. “Provide them with honest information appropriate for their age and encourage them to ask questions,” advises Roady.
Engage your child about their feelings and thoughts. Let them know that it’s perfectly normal to feel frustrated or anxious about the test and the pandemic, but it’s vital to express these feelings. For more guidance on discussing coronavirus in age-appropriate ways, see additional advice.
When should a child get tested for COVID-19?
Testing recommendations for COVID-19 may differ based on individual circumstances or geographic location. If you’re concerned that your child has symptoms of COVID-19 or has been exposed to someone who is infected, contact your child’s healthcare provider to inquire about the next steps.
Symptoms of COVID-19 can include:
– Fever or chills
– Cough
– Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
– Fatigue
– Muscle or body aches
– Headache
– New loss of taste or smell
– Sore throat
– Congestion or runny nose
– Nausea or vomiting
– Diarrhea
For more information about COVID-19 community testing locations in North Texas, visit relevant resources.
Learn more: Children’s Health is dedicated to being a reliable source of health information and support for families during this challenging time. Explore additional resources available at the Children’s Health COVID-19 hub.
ABOUT KIMBERLY WILLIAMS:
Kimberly Williams is a licensed clinical social worker and Behavioral Health Care Manager at the Children’s Health Andrews Institute in Plano. Joining the Children’s Health team in 2017, she has offered behavioral health resources in various capacities, including integrated behavioral health in several pediatric primary care clinics, the Emergency Department, and at the Children’s Health Andrews Institute. Williams holds a master’s degree from Baylor University with a focus on physical and mental health.
