When kids come in for a visit and are feeling crummy to begin with -- and then they’re stuck sitting around for a long time in the waiting room (and sometimes an exam room) -- it’s no wonder they get upset.
It’s really important for your child to have a clear expectation of what the visit will be like. Describe what’s likely to happen and be as honest as you can. For example, never tell a child that a shot won’t hurt. Instead, say something like “Yes, it’s going to hurt, but only for a little bit.”
To make the wait more tolerable, arm yourself with as many helpful diversions as you can, like three favorite books, two soft blankets and a little snack.
Depending on the age of the child, there are other things you can do ahead of time to help the visit go smoothly. For instance, a play doctor kit is a great toy for toddlers, because they get familiar with the stethoscope, the otoscope and all those other tools with funny names that we use during a doctor visit. For school-age kids, have them think of a question to ask the doctor about their bodies so they feel like they have their own agenda.
Also, don’t underestimate the power of rewards. After the doctor visit, plan to do something your child really enjoys (and is feeling up for), such as that movie he’s been bugging you to see. And always follow through -- even if the visit doesn’t go well.
Finally, if you try all this advice and your little one still screams through the entire visit, don’t lose heart. It’s actually developmentally normal for kids between the ages of 9 months and about 3 years to dislike doctor visits, because that’s when kids experience stranger anxiety.
