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