Children don’t like going to the doctor, but some kids are actually petrified. It's no wonder, considering that most kids don't like being touched by strangers. Often a big part of the fear is that children don't know what to expect. Here are some useful tips on how to help your little son or daughter feel a little safer and calmer during his next visit.

Explain the reason of the visit.

It’s not a case for any surprises. Prepare kids beforehand to the visit to the doctor. When explaining the reason of the visit, talk about the doctor in a positive way. If you're going to a regular health checkup, never threaten your child with any possible illnesses. Tell your little one that the doctor will check on how he is growing and developing and examine him to make sure that his body is healthy. Explain that all good healthy kids go to family physicians for such visits.

Prepare questions.

Suggest your child thinking of questions to ask the doctor. Help your kid to write them down or, if he is old enough, let him do it himself. Rehearse asking those questions if your child is shy. It is always good to have a family doctor so that your children get used to the same person. If you live in Canada, you can find a good one among Okanagan family doctors.

Play role games.

Help your child know what to expect before going to the doctor. Buy a toy doctor kit and a white lab coat for a pretend checkup so he knows what to anticipate. Show your child how a doctor may examine his mouth or ears, listen to his heartbeat, or take his blood pressure. Make together weight and height measurements. You can also read children's books that tell about visits to the doctor.

Accompany your child.

Separation. Kids are often afraid that their parents may leave them in the doctor’s room and wait outside. This fear of separation during mysterious examinations is most common in kids under 7 years old. So, try to be aside, hold your child by the hand, if he asks you. If your doctor is a Sarnia family physician, you can always get an online consultation without having to bring your child to clinic.

Be honest.

Avoid saying phrases like "Don't be afraid," "It won't hurt," or "Don't cry," because doing so will only threaten your child. Instead, say that you know the experience is not pleasant, but it'll be over quickly. This way you will not lose your child’s trust. Most of kids are afraid of the doctor actually because of shots. Never promise that your child will not need shots, unless you know it for sure. By the way, Okanagan and Sarnia family doctors offer 24 hour online consultations where you can know beforehand all the information about the upcoming visit. All in all, always try to be honest with your kid and everything will be ok.