School-Age Children’s Reactions to Health Care Settings or Medical Procedures

If possible, let children make choices about the care they will be receiving at Gillette.

School-age children (age 6-12) are beginning to understand and be interested in how their bodies work. They want to know what will happen in the hospital or clinic and how they’ll look after a surgery. They are developing a sense of independence and enjoy making their own decisions. They may interpret medical procedures as punishment for past mistakes or bad deeds, and worry about pain or death. Be prepared to discuss these topics should they arise. (Child life specialists can help with these difficult topics.)

When preparing for a hospital stay or medical procedures, ask your health care provider to explain what your child will undergo and to clarify your role (i.e., what you can do to console and comfort your child). Ask about pain medicines that can be given before and if you can be present during the procedure.

Explaining procedures or surgeries in terms that your child can understand helps them be less fearful. If possible, let children make choices about the care they’ll receive. For example, they might choose which arm to use for a blood test, or whether they want to swallow or chew medicine.

Tell children ...

• What they will experience (what it will feel like, how long it will last, whether it will hurt) 
• When you will be there with them
• How they may look or feel after treatment (e.g., stitches, casts, bandages)
• They can ask questions and make some choices
• They can bring familiar and comforting items (e.g., favorite toys, books or music)
• That it’s okay to feel scared, upset or angry

Ideas for Helping Your School-Age Child Cope