Preschoolers Going To Hospital

Preschoolers Going To Hospital

• Hospitals today aim to be family and child friendly places. However any new experience can be challenging for a preschooler.
• If your child must go to hospital you can prepare them:
  • Talk openly about what is going to happen, try to arrange a visit.
  • Have some pretend play with dolls and teddy bears.
  • Borrow doctors and nurses play kits from toy libraries or make your own.
  • Read pictures and children's story books on going to hospital.
  • If you have to leave them in hospital reassure them that you will be with them for most of the time.
  • Let them know they are going home as soon as they are well.
  • Take familiar toys into hospital for them.
  • Label all your child's toys, books and clothing with their name.
  • Try to be calm and positive.
  • Answer any questions as honestly as you can. If you don't know an answer, tell your child you will find out from the doctor.
• When you take your child to hospital:
  • Give the hospital any relevant information, such as special likes and dislikes, special words the child may use with toileting, if your child uses a dummy or comforter
  • Be with your child as long as you can. Many hospitals provide beds for the parent to stay overnight with their child.
  • If the child is well enough encourage other family members and friends to visit.
  • Ask the nursing staff how you can help your child. You may be able to help with bathing and feeding.
  • If your child is upset, tears are normal during this time. Listen and reassure your child. Try to remain positive.
  • Always be honest with your child. Try to cooperate with those who are caring for them.
• Always avoid using the doctor or hospital as a threat and don't promise they can come home until you are sure of the doctor's recommendation.

Parenting tips & parenting articles copyright & courtesy
Department for Community Devlp, Australia.

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