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Worries preschoolers may have in the hospital include: pain, fear of needles, seeing procedures as punishment, fear of bodily harm, separation from family, and confusion about being in the hospital. Here are some ways to help your preschooler with the hospital visit: Preparation:Talk about going to the hospital—in simple words—a few days before our child's visit. Explain to your child that going to the hospital is to help make him or her feel better—not because he or she did anything wrong. Read books about going to the hospital. Add doctor kits to regular play activities. Give your child lots of time to ask questions and show understanding. Coping, Distraction, and Support:Sing ABC's, nursery rhymes, songs, and count. Blow bubbles and pinwheels. Read sound books and pop-up books. Watch a glitter wand or water wheel. Provide comfort items (blanket, stuffed animal). Talk about some of your child's favorite things (animals, toys,games, etc.). Medical Play:Make medical collages with things found in the hospital(band-aids, gauze, tongue depressors, cotton balls, etc). Syringe painting (filling syringes with paint and squirting on paper) and water play with syringes. Play and explore with medical equipment and dolls. |
