One of your main goals as a parent is to keep your child healthy. That means you need to take them to the pediatrician. But what if your child is terrified of going to the doctor? They could start screaming the second you leave the house. This is something that they need to overcome, otherwise it’s something that could linger into adulthood. Here are some ways you can help them overcome their fears so that they can get the best kids care.
Stress That the Doctor Wants to Help
Before you take your child to the doctor, explain that the doctor wants to help them stay healthy. The child may have heard something about someone having a bad experience. Let your child know that you are going to be right there with them in the exam room. This will help comfort them and ease any fears that they may be abandoned in the room with just the doctor.
Explain Everything About the Doctor Visit
When it comes to kids care, the wait can be one of the worst things. When you’re sitting in the waiting room, and it’s taking a while for the doctor to call you, that can create time for anxiety to kick in. Before you go, you should explain what’s going to happen throughout the visit. Children don’t like the unknown, so explain things to ease their minds.
Don’t Project Your Own Worry
Kids are superb at reading their parent’s emotions. If they know that you’re worried about something, then they are going to be worried. Be calm and confident throughout the whole thing, and they will likely follow suit. Be reassuring if they are worried, but don’t be vague. That may send them into an anxiety spiral.
Another thing that can help is to bring them to someone who is nurturing. According to Zippia, 72.8% of pediatricians are female. A child may feel more at ease with someone who could be another mother figure. That’s not to say men can’t help keep children calm, but the odds may be better with a female.
These are just a few of the things that can help ease your child’s fear of the doctor. Things should go much smoother as time goes by. Do you live in Phoenix, AZ and need kids care for your child? Come to us at Pediatrix. Our pediatrician is excellent and will put both you and your child at ease. Contact us today, and our staff will gladly answer any questions that you may have.
Posted 3/14/24
