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Even the most routine doctor appointment can be a scary experience for a child, full of sights, sounds, and sensations that provoke anxiety and stoke fears that the visit will be uncomfortable or painful. As a parent, there are some steps you can take to ensure the appointment goes as smoothly as possible. Below, explore a few of these steps in more detail.

How to Alleviate Your Child's Fear of Going to the Doctor

1. Tell Them What to Expect

Much of a child's fear about the doctor stems from a fear of the unknown. They don't know what the visit will be like. When talking to your child about the upcoming visit, don't use vague or unclear statements; in age-appropriate terms, tell them what they can expect. Explain step by step what will happen. Don't promise that a particular test, treatment, or shot won't hurt unless you're certain it won't. Instead, tell them that there might be a little bit of discomfort, but they are in a safe place with safe people and the doctor is a friend who only wants to make sure the child is healthy.

2. Don't Dismiss Their Fears

doctorIt can be tempting to try to minimize or outright dismiss a child's fears, but by doing this, the parent is preventing the child from expressing themselves honestly and openly. Encourage them to talk about what they're feeling, and acknowledge that fear and worry are difficult emotions. Find common ground by telling them that you also get scared when facing uncertain situations. By validating their feelings, they learn that their fears and concerns are normal and that they have you as support in navigating these tough issues.

3. Accompany Your Child

If possible, accompany your child to the doctor's visit. Go with them into the exam room, reassure them, and be a model of calmness and coolness. Your child will pick up on your energy. If they see you at ease in the doctor's office, some of the scariness around the experience will naturally dissipate. During the exam or treatment, check-in with the doctor. If they're going too fast or using complex words and you see your child struggling, request that the doctor slow down or explain things, so the child understands. Your doctor will appreciate the feedback; they, too, want the appointment to be stress-free for your child.

 

A caring, compassionate doctor is an essential ally in your child's health and comfort. 1st Choice Healthcare is a medical clinic serving patients of all ages throughout the Corning, AR, area. Since 1994, they have been providing a wide range of healthcare services, including pediatrics, family medicine, behavioral health, and podiatry. Call (870) 857-3399 or visit their website to schedule an appointment.

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