Some Tips for a Stress-Free Visit to the Pediatrician

An important part of parenting is taking your child to the pediatrician. Apart from the inevitable sick visits, there will be regular well visits too. Over the years, you will be accompanying your child to the doctor’s office on many occasions. Many children find these visits very stressful, making it a daunting task for the parents too.

The environment at the pediatrician’s office plays a significant role in making the a child feel at ease. For example, if the pediatric treatment table looks child-friendly and comforting rather than cold and scary, this can greatly diminish a child’s fears.

Can parents contribute to helping their children overcome the fear of visiting the doctor? Yes, they can. Here are a few tips every parent should know:

Adopt an Age-Appropriate Approach.

While your infant will not understand any of the details associated with a trip to the doctor’s office, they may experience stranger anxiety. Their anxiety can be aggravated if they sense you are stressed out too. So, stay calm; make sure your voice remains soothing and reassuring. That way, your baby will feel safe and secure.

Even though preschoolers like taking charge and doing things themselves, they can also experience anxiety around an unfamiliar face. To alleviate their fear, you should talk to them about what a trip to the doctor’s office will be like before the visits. Playing doctor is also a good way to increasing their comfort level. You know your child best and will know what works.

Be Careful with Words.

Remember to choose your words very carefully. Instead ofRather than telling them, they have to go to the pediatrician, say that they get to visit the pediatrician. Children feel more comfortable when you tell them they will get to do something rather than being told they have to do something.

This goes for other routine activities as well, like taking a nap and cleaning their room.

Create a Positive Attitude.

Sit your child down, and explain why they go to the doctor. Never associate the doctor’s visit with unpleasant experiences. Don’t joke about it by saying things like, “The doctor will give you a shot if you don’t behave.”

Do Some Research.

While some children do not mind going to the doctor, others are afraid to go. Consult your child’s pediatrician about how to calm your child down before, during, and after a trip to the doctor’s office.