Coping with Illness and Treatment

There are bound to be some uncomfortable and challenging experiences during a hospital stay. Here are some techniques for you and your child to employ to help deal with those tough times:

Things children can do:
  • breathe deeply
  • blow bubbles
  • pretend to blow the candles out on a birthday cake
  • think about a happy or fun time and pretend to be there
  • tell stories or sing aloud
  • count backward
  • squeeze a parent's or friend's hand
  • listen to music
  • look at a picture or a toy

Things parents can do:
  • tell your child what to expect
  • use a calm, soothing voice
  • reassure your child
  • coach your child
  • give encouragement
  • hold your child's hand
  • stroke your child's face or arm