My Child Is Afraid of the Doctor: What Can I Do to Help?

Every parent wants their child to be healthy, and every parent knows that means their child needs to visit their doctor regularly — when they’re sick, when they’re injured, and even when they’re well. Unfortunately, many kids are fearful of doctor visits, and that means getting them to visit the doctor can be challenging for both your child and for you.

Our team at Minit Medical Urgent Care and Physical Therapy features providers who specialize in kids’ unique health needs, providing comprehensive pediatric care, urgent care, and physical therapy designed for pediatric patients. If your child is nervous about visiting the doctor, these simple tips can help.

Be matter-of-fact

Help your child understand the importance of seeing the doctor regularly to help them grow stronger and stay healthy. Don’t get too dramatic, but make it seem like a part of their normal routine. If your child asks questions, provide simple answers in clear, positive terms.

Read books and watch videos

Today, there are plenty of books and videos available that help your child understand what to expect during a doctor visit, as well as story books about other kids with similar worries. Visit your library or look online for videos and other resources you can share with your child.

Role play at home

Using a doll or stuffed animal as the patient, let your child play the role of their doctor in a make-believe office at home. Or, alternate playing doctor and patient with your child. 

A small investment in a toy stethoscope, your home scale, and even a regular thermometer make the experience more realistic and take some of the mystery and worry out of the office visit experience.

Bring a comforting sidekick

Most kids have a favorite toy or blanket that helps them feel comfortable and relaxed. Letting your child bring their item with them to the office can help them feel that comfort when they need it most. 

Have distractions on hand

Bringing a new book to read or a game you and your child can play in the waiting room helps take your child’s mind off their upcoming visit, and it can help them relax, too. Who knows? The extra time with mom or dad may wind up making doctor visits something your child actually looks forward to.

Offer a small reward

Going to the doctor is a big event for most kids, and there’s nothing wrong with rewarding their bravery. A trip to a park or a small treat from the store shows them you appreciate their effort while also putting a tangibly positive spin on the experience.

Set a good example

Especially for young kids, moms and dads are powerful role models. Letting your child see you visit the doctor is a great way to help them feel more comfortable, too. (And of course, regular medical visits help you stay healthy, too!)

Make your child’s doctor part of your team

Teach your child to view their doctor as someone who wants to help them be healthy and happy now and throughout their life. Establishing trust between your child and their healthcare provider today can go a long way toward maintaining healthy habits for life.

To schedule a visit for your child, book an appointment online or over the phone with Minit Medical Urgent Care and Physical Therapy in Kihei, Kahului, and Lahaina, Hawaii, today.