Visiting an ear, nose, and throat specialist for the first time can feel unfamiliar, regardless of your age. For kids, confronting something unknown can be especially nerve-racking.
At ENT Specialists, our team is skilled in pediatric ENT and in the unique needs and concerns of kids. Here, we offer a few simple tips to help prepare your child and take some of the mystery out of their first appointment.
Just like adults, kids worry a lot more when they don’t know what to expect. Talking about their upcoming visit ahead of time helps them feel more familiar and less anxious about it.
Begin by explaining what an ENT specialist does and why your child is having the visit in the first place. Keep things very basic: For instance, you might say the doctor checks your ears, nose, and throat and helps when something isn’t working the way it should.
Let them know that, during their visit, the doctor will look inside their ears, nose, and mouth. They may use a stethoscope to listen to their lungs while they breathe in and out or ask them to swallow so they can look for any problems. Knowing what to expect can relieve a lot of anxiety and make the exam easier (for both of you).
Sometimes, a little “hands-on” experience can make all the difference. Using a doll or stuffed animal, let your child take on the role of an ENT during playtime. Encourage your child to go through the motions, looking at the toy’s ears, nose, and mouth.
For an older child, practice some things the ENT may ask them to do, like opening their mouth, saying “ah,” taking a deep breath, or answering questions about how they feel. Whatever you do, keep it fun and casual.
Role-playing also gives your child a chance to practice describing their symptoms in their own words. For example, if they’re having ear pain, ask them to explain where it hurts and what the pain feels like.
Many younger children feel comforted by bringing a favorite toy, stuffed animal, or even a blanket with them to their visit. Keeping the item close by during the examination helps them feel more grounded and provides a sense of familiarity during an otherwise unfamiliar experience.
Books and hand-held games help distract kids and keep them entertained while waiting for their visit. Puzzle books and coloring books are good options, too.
For some kids, going to the doctor can feel like they’re being forced into something they don’t want to do, resulting in a scary feeling of having no control over their life. You can help offset that reaction by letting them make small choices about their visit — for instance, choosing what comfort item to bring or picking out their outfit for the day.
For older kids, review what questions they might like to ask during their visit, so they understand they’ll be involved instead of just being told what to do and what to say. Even small decisions like these help your child feel more in control now and at future visits.
Children often take their cues from their parents. When discussing the visit — or any medical- or health-related issue, for that matter — keep things positive and upbeat. Discuss their visit in a calm, matter-of-fact way and don’t talk about any negative experiences you may have had.
It’s often wise to avoid saying certain words or phrases that might otherwise seem positive. For example, telling your child to “be brave” might sound encouraging, but it can actually signal the possibility of danger or discomfort ahead.
A better approach: Let your child know it’s OK to feel a little nervous and assure them you’ll be there to support them every step of the way.
At ENT Specialists, we understand children have different needs — and different concerns — than adults. Our pediatric ENT team specializes in kid-centered care for all sorts of problems, combined with a relaxed, compassionate approach to help every child feel relaxed and confident.
If your child needs ENT care, we’re here to help. Request an appointment online or over the phone with the team at ENT Specialists in Salt Lake City, Murray, Magna, Draper, and Tooele, Utah, today.
