Preparing your child for a visit to hospital

We know a visit to hospital can be a daunting experience for children and families. 

The Monash Health team have some helpful tips on how to best prepare your child for a positive hospital experience and ease their anxiety:

️ Talk to your child honestly and openly about why they need to go to the hospital, what will happen there, and how long they will stay. Use simple, positive and age-appropriate language.

Encourage your child to ask questions and express their feelings. Listen to their concerns and validate their emotions. Reassure them that you will be there to support them and that the hospital staff are there to help.

Involve your child in the preparation process. Let them pack their own bag with some comfort items, such as a favourite toy, blanket, or book. 

Use play as a way to help your child understand and cope with the hospital environment. You can use dolls, stuffed animals, or medical play kits to act out what will happen at the hospital. You can also read books or watch videos about going to the hospital with your child.

Let your child’s treating team know if you would like Child Life Therapy to support your child during their treatment. Child life therapists specialise in child development to support and empower children, young people and their families by helping them understand their hospital treatment. Child life therapists provide information and support for medical procedures, and opportunities for normalised play experiences.

Remember, you are not alone in this journey. The Monash Health team are always available to support you and your child during your visit. 

For more information on preparing your child for a stay at Monash Children’s Hospital, please watch the video below, and visit: https://monashchildrenshospital.org/patients-and-families/your-childs-surgery/before-you-arrive/