Little patients need a little patience

For most of us, a doctor’s appointment is simply another responsibility, like picking up the dry cleaning or getting the car serviced. For young children, however, the word "doctor" can conjure up images of ominous strangers in white coats wielding foot-long syringes.

"Children can scare themselves silly by imagining all sorts of gruesome scenarios at doctor’s office," says pediatrician Chia-Chieh Hu, M.D. "In truth, most kids are surprised at how easy examinations are."

To minimize your child’s stress and fear about seeing the doctor, start by listening to his specific concerns. Some children fear vaccinations or a particular treatment received during their last appointment. Others may have heard frightening stories from friends or siblings.

DEMYSTIFYING MEDICINE

Books can help a child understand his fears as well by finding out exactly what goes on at doctor’s office.

Toy doctor sets let kids become familiar with the tools the doctor might use. Invite your child to give the nearest teddy bear a check-up, and maybe even a flu shot.

WHAT TO TELL? WHEN TO TELL?

When you make the appointment, ask for a quick rundown of what is likely to take place, such as shots or vision and hearing tests. This knowledge will help you prepare your child.

Don’t let your child spend weeks dreading the appointment. Tell toddlers and young school-age children on the day of the appointment or no earlier than the day before. Let older children know as soon as you have to shuffle play dates, sports practice, or music lessons around the appointment.

If the visit is for a routine examination, explain that the doctor will "check how you are growing." Summarize what will happen as simply as possible: "The doctor might ask you and Mommy and Daddy some questions, then look, listen and feel to make sure that your body is healthy."

Explain that doctors, nurses, and parents sometimes need to examine all parts of the body, even the "private" areas. Reinforce the message that these people are the only ones who are allowed to do so.

If you know your child will need a vaccination or other uncomfortable procedure, tell them right before it is scheduled. Explain how the pain will last for a moment, but it will help by preventing or curing an illness.

MAKE THE WAIT GREAT

While HMF pediatrics office have magazines and toys in the waiting rooms, nothing beats a favorite toy from home. Encourage your child to bring a book, puzzle, electronic game or other item that will hold his attention. Or let your child start a homework assignment.

WITH THE DOCTOR

Use an upbeat, matter-of-fact tone in the exam room. No matter how frazzled you (and your child) get, avoid negative statements like "She hated this the last time," or "Stop being such a baby," or, and this is the worst, "If you’re not good, you’ll get a shot!"

For children, it is bizarre to have someone flash a light into their eyes or peer down their throats. So be reassuring: "The doctor needs to look in your ears. Mommy is right here to help you."

But don’t do all the talking. Allow your child to build a relationship with his doctor by explaining in his own words why he visiting the office. (The answers may surprise you!)

WRITE YOUR OWN RX — FOR FUN!

After the appointment, congratulate your child for his good behavior. If time allows, do something special like visiting the park or library. If the exam was especially difficult, treat your child to a small toy or a book, but avoid using food as a reward.

Communication, preparation and soothing support are effective tools for shaping your child’s attitude toward the doctor, and making appointments a little less stressful for everyone.

THE READING ROOM

HMF pediatricians recommend these books. Look for them at your local library or bookstore.

Preschool age and younger:

"Corduroy Goes to the Doctor" by Lisa McCue and Don Freeman
"What To Expect When You Go to the Doctor" by Heidi Murkoff and Laura Rader

"Going to the Doctor" by T. Berry Brazleton

For ages 4-8:

"The Berenstain Bears Go to the Doctor" by Stan Berenstain and Jan Berenstain
"What’s in a Doctor’s Bag" by Sibley Fleming and Neil B. Schulman