Here are some tips to prepare your child for visits
to the hospital and emergency room:

• Use simple explanations the child will understand.
• Use accurate terms the child may hear on the visit, such as "surgery", and explain what they mean.
• Be aware of "red flag" words or terms that may trigger fear of anxiety in the child. For example, saying, "The doctor will put you to sleep," may cause fears that child will be put to sleep like a former pet.
• Books about doctor visits can be helpful tools.

• If a procedure will be painful, avoid telling the child that it will not hurt.
• It may be helpful to explain that, although painful now, the procedure will make the child feel better or stay healthy.

• If you cannot stay with your child, explain where you will be and when you will be reunited.
• If the child is upset by procedures during the visit, try to sooth him or her by humming, describing the surroundings and using touch when possible.
• Identify people as your child encounters them, such as, "This is the doctor."

• Let your child know that it is okay to cry, feel scared or be worried.
• Be sure your child knows that the visit is not punishment for something he or she has done.
• Encourage your child to ask questions he or she might have.

• Your child may return to prior behaviors such as thumb sucking or bed wetting.
• Your child may want to be close to your side or become upset at times of separation.
• With love and support most of these behaviors will fade or return to normal in time.