Even as an adult, hospitals can sometimes be unnerving with all the people in uniforms, unfamiliar equipment and busy wards.
Imagine how it is for your young child to experience this for the first time - it's no surprise that it can be quite overwhelming for kids.
In case your child is looking at a stay in hospital for whatever reason, we've spoken to the Play Specialists at Great Ormond Street Hospital For Children who have given their advice on looking after children's wellbeing.
What should I bring to hospital for kids?
Bring items from home that will bring comfort to your child. For example, you might want to bring a familiar comfort blanket or favourite soft toy.
Bringing familiar toys and doing activities you would usually do together at home can help normalise the environment and help children to feel more comfortable.
If your child is admitted to hospital for a longer stay you could bring photographs and items which will help the room or bed they're staying in feel more homely.
How should I speak to children about their hospital stay?
Always be open and honest with your child about why they are coming to hospital and what will happen to them while they are in there.
If you are unsure what is going to happen then explain to your child that you will find out together. Use simple and child-appropriate language and write down any questions either you or your child have. It's ok not to have all of the answers - you can support your child and work together to ask the doctor/nurse/play specialist.
Many parents try to hide the truth in order to protect their child. However it can be more worrying not knowing and if they come to realise this has happened, it can affect their trust聽- especially for future visits.
Health play specialists can also help to prepare your child for procedures and are trained to help to explain what鈥檚 happening using child-appropriate language.
Sticking to a routine with children in hospital
When they're staying in hospital, try keeping your child to a routine as much as possible.
If your child is well enough, then getting dressed for the day, sitting to the table for meals, spending time out of bed playing together and normal bedtime routines can all be ways of keeping a sense of normality for them.
Looking after yourself
Make sure you鈥檙e taking care of yourself - eating as normally as you can, drinking plenty of water and resting when needed.
The better care you give yourself, the better you'll be able to take care of your child.
The role of health play specialists
Health play specialists use play to help children feel at ease and understand their condition and treatment.
They help support and reduce anxiety for children and their families in the hospital.
They can help prepare children for procedures, help to distract during procedures and explain diagnoses/treatments in an appropriate way to them. They can also provide play activities to keep your child occupied during their time in the hospital.
Health play specialists are trained to build a rapport with children, help them feel at ease and look out for their best interests.
You can request play specialist support before or during your child's hospital admission.
Further help
- Check out our tips on taking kids to see the doctor or dentist
