Without a doubt, a trip to the pediatrician can be a traumatic
experience for children. Chances are, there is something physically
wrong or even worse, they need to receive the oh-so-dreaded shot. Or
perhaps the doctor is viewed as a big and scary figure who will only
make the pain worse. Keeping children calm at the doctor's office
presents possibly the greatest challenge of the whole experience. It is
only fair and expected that doctors and nurses respect the angst that
routine check-ups may cause children. Keep in mind that a fear of the
doctor isn't childish or dumb, but it is unsafe and can ultimately carry
over into adulthood. More importantly that feeling comfortable at a
young age, but we should focus on building a foundation that supports
anxiety-free doctor's visits for a lifetime.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a parenting style that encourages and recognizes good behavior with words, smiles, and huge. Parents should more so be guiding their children to positive behavior rather than using punishments or threats. Sticking to this parenting logic, visits to the doctor should not be punishments for children or brought on in a negative manner.
No matter how old the child is, prepare your child in advance for procedures or shots that they me receiving. Try to comfort them while also being honest. If your child is fearful of a shot, explain to them how it will help them and will decrease their chances of becoming sick. Under any circumstances, or no matter how upset you are with them, never use a shot or a doctor's visit as a threat for bad behavior.
Not only can you try to prepare children before the doctor, but you can also be with them through the process. Treat them like you would in the comfort of their own home - read them a kids book or tell them stories during painful difficult times of the exam. In some cases, children feel better hugging their parent during fearful parts or when the shot is given. If doctor's allow, let your older children choose where the injection will take place therefore giving them a sense of control. If guided honestly and comfortably by their parents, children are more likely to feel at ease during a doctor's visit.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a parenting style that encourages and recognizes good behavior with words, smiles, and huge. Parents should more so be guiding their children to positive behavior rather than using punishments or threats. Sticking to this parenting logic, visits to the doctor should not be punishments for children or brought on in a negative manner.
No matter how old the child is, prepare your child in advance for procedures or shots that they me receiving. Try to comfort them while also being honest. If your child is fearful of a shot, explain to them how it will help them and will decrease their chances of becoming sick. Under any circumstances, or no matter how upset you are with them, never use a shot or a doctor's visit as a threat for bad behavior.
Not only can you try to prepare children before the doctor, but you can also be with them through the process. Treat them like you would in the comfort of their own home - read them a kids book or tell them stories during painful difficult times of the exam. In some cases, children feel better hugging their parent during fearful parts or when the shot is given. If doctor's allow, let your older children choose where the injection will take place therefore giving them a sense of control. If guided honestly and comfortably by their parents, children are more likely to feel at ease during a doctor's visit.
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