shine bright at the doctor

Prepare Your Little One For The Big Visit

Visiting the doctor can be a big event for children (and sometimes for their parents too!) With a little preparation, you can help your child feel confident, calm, and even curious about going to the doctor. Here’s how:

1. Start Talking Early

A few days before the appointment, mention the upcoming visit. Use simple, positive language to explain why we go to the doctor such as "The doctor helps keep us healthy," or "We visit the doctor to make sure our bodies are growing well." Talking in advance will help them know what to expect and can lessen their fears of the visit. Avoid waiting until the last minute, which can create a sense of surprise or anxiety.

2. Answer Their Questions

Encourage your child to ask questions about the doctor visit. Answer using language they can understand. Talking builds their confidence.

• Actively listen and take their concerns seriously.  

• Comfort them. Let them know it is okay to feel nervous or scared. 

• Reassure them you will be there for support.

• Validate their feelings with phrases like “It’s normal to feel worried.”

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3. Be Honest (But Gentle)

If your child is due for a shot, it is important to be honest, without alarming them. You could say, "You might feel a quick pinch, but it will be over very fast. I’ll be right there with you." Avoid saying, "It won’t hurt.” Transparency builds connection and trust. 

4. Read Books About Doctor Visits

Our personalized books can help your child prepare for their visit by showing them what to expect. Our sticker chart distracts your child and creates a sense of accomplishment during the visit. Reading together gives your child a safe space to ask questions and express feelings.

5. Play Doctor At Home

Kids learn through play. Set up a pretend doctor’s office with dolls, stuffed animals, or even family members as patients. Just like Lumie teaches in the book, let your child take turns being the doctor and the patient. Use toy doctor kits or household items, like a small flashlight to look in the throat or a scarf for a blood pressure cuff. Make it fun! Role play lets the actual visit feel more familiar and less intimidating.

Parent Tips: Preparation For Doctor Day

Being prepared the day of the visit will help it go more smoothly. Here are some parent tips:

• Distract your child to ease their mind and focus their attention on something fun or relaxing. Use a sticker chart, sing a song, or play a game. 

• Bring a comfort toy such as a favorite stuffed animal, a small blanket, or a special toy. Familiar objects can provide reassurance during unfamiliar experiences.

• Offer acceptable choices during the visit to give them a sense of control. For example, ask if they want to sit on your lap or on the exam table.

• Remember to stay calm too. Children are excellent at picking up on adult emotions. If you are calm about the visit, your child is more likely to mirror your attitude. Practice deep breathing if you feel your own nerves kicking in.

• At the end of the visit, take a moment to celebrate your child's bravery, no matter how the appointment went. Lots of hugs and praise can make your child feel proud. This positive reinforcement builds resilience for future visits.

Final Reminders: You And Your Child Are Ready To Shine At The Doctor

Start preparing your child a few days in advance for their doctor’s visit with calm, simple conversations. Let them know what to expect by using clear and reassuring language. Answer questions honestly, read books, and play pretend doctor to relieve worries and make the visit feel more familiar. 

The day of the appointment, help your child feel more at ease by bringing a comfort toy, using fun distractions like songs or games, and offering simple choices to give them a sense of control. Stay calm yourself. Do not forget to celebrate their bravery afterward with praise and hugs to build confidence for next time. Most of all, your support can turn a nervous moment into a confident one.

Every child deserves to feel safe, supported, and empowered - one book at a time!