Tips To Ease the Pain of Doctor’s Visits
Doctor’s appointments are normally a challenge for my family. I’d imagine they are challenging for most parents with small children. The doctor’s office is the last place a child wants to be. Waiting rooms are filled with ailing babies. The seating is uncomfortable and the scrubs and white coats worn by health care professionals have a way of striking fear in even the calmest child.
Having been a parent for over 10 years I’ve spent my fair share of time in the pediatrician’s office. There have been good visits. And there have been visits that have ruined my entire day. Looking back on these appointments I realize there are better decisions I could have made that would have improved my children’s experiences. Below are a few hints that will help you and your baby have a better, brighter doctor’s visit.
1. Schedule the appointment for a “good” time. If you are not a morning person I’d advise not to make an early morning appointment. There’s no need to rush around the house frazzled, trying to make it to the doctor on time. It will only frustrate you, and your child. Also, schedule the appointment after your child’s nap time. Children who are well rested always perform better in any circumstance.
2. Be sure that your child is fed before the appointment. Any child that is hungry will be cranky and irritable while at the doctor.
3. Prepare a bad of goodies. You will probably have an extended wait time at the pediatrician. So, you need to be sure that your child will be entertained until the doctor is able to see him. Toys are always helpful. Small cars or dolls will keep your baby occupied while you wait. My children are a little older, so I allow them to bring their Nintendo DS systems with them. It would also be wise to pack a bag of snacks along with your child’s favorite books or magazines. I carry along old issues of Highlight’s magazines. These magazines have many activities like word searches for children to complete.
4. Dress comfortably. That goes for you and your little one. Often times your child will be required to undress. Make sure the attire your child wears will be conducive to dressing and undressing quickly. If your child is getting any immunizations he will be very unhappy and you don’t want to have to fuss with their clothing during this time.
Trips to the pediatrician can be stressful for you and your baby. But these tips will help you ease the pain of going to the doctor. Have I forgotten anything? What tips do you have that we could add to the list?
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