They feel sick, they go to an unknown place and they find a person wearing a white coat who uses strange and cold devices that they do not understand. In the creative mind of a child it is normal that a visit to the doctor supposes the appearance of an episode of fear.
The challenge is to get them to understand that doctors are their allies and not enemies that are going to harm them. Make them understand that despite the possible discomfort, these people will relieve their ailments, it is something fundamental that all parents must ensure.
The doctor is never punishment
A mistake commonly made in the homes of the previous generation is to say that the child is either well behaved, or is taken to the doctor to give him an injection. It is not surprising that in this situation the minor links the visit to the pediatrician with something traumatic and that it is the result of bad behavior. Actually the little ones must accept that going to a specialist is something necessary to get well.
Parents also need to ensure that the visit to the pediatrician is as pleasant as possible. Before leaving, you can briefly explain to them what is wrong and that they are going to visit a person who will surely help them. That is, not to see the doctor as a punishment but as the opposite: a necessary friend throughout life.
Contact with the pediatrician
Another technique that helps to lose the fear of pediatricians is that children see something close to them. The better relationship with the doctor is better. If by chance you are on the street to this specialist, greeting him as a person close to the family will help the child see him as someone to trust. That the child knows the name of his doctor is also very important since this helps him to stop being a stranger to him.
In addition, the pediatrician also addresses the minor in a friendly and conciliatory tone is very important to improve the relationship between the two. Let them talk Like any other patient, it is the one who suffers from this pain who can best explain to the doctor what happens to them. When going to the doctor should be allowed to talk about their symptoms, this technique will also help to promote the bond between the child and his pediatrician. When the child finishes speaking, the parents will be able to provide all the information that they have missed or that their child has not been able to explain correctly.
To normalize the situation it is also recommended that when adults have to go to the doctor, they do not show symptoms of fear or reluctance. Parents should be the best reference in this regard and show their children that these visits are typical and the only way to heal when they feel bad. If it is a simple check-up and not a serious problem, that the children go with their parents to the health center is a good way to lose this fear.
Once the medical consultation is over, if they have behaved well, parents should convey how proud they are of this demonstrated attitude. Otherwise, you never have to scold or get angry, you have to explain quietly that nothing has happened and that this visit was essential to heal.
If you have questions or require more information, contact the specialists of the Pediatrics portal in Mérida.
