Like many children, when I was a child I was simply terrified of strangers. The waitress at the restaurant, the bus driver, but most especially my (very nice albeit scary to a child) pediatrician were mere monsters to me. I had such deep anxiety about strangers that I would become a turtle and retreat into my shell. Of course, this was my natural defense mechanism to stay safe. Now as a parent, I hate to say that I’ve taught my own children to be terrified of strangers in an attempt to keep them safe. However, I have learned that there are a few “strangers” that my children should be able to trust and depend upon. The most important stranger for a child to feel safe and comfortable around should be their pediatrician. I mean, doctors are there to help us after all.
I recently had the opportunity to have a conversation with Dr. Miriam Salvador of Kaiser Permanente Orange County about this very topic. During our conversation, Dr. Miriam Salvador gave me some very useful tips for parents to help establish a positive relationship between children and their pediatrician and I am thrilled to share them with you. I am a Kaiser Permanente Orange County thrive ambassadors, all opinions are my own.
Tips to Help Encourage a Positive Relationship Between Your Child and their Pediatrician
The most important tip that Dr. Miriam Salvador would like parents to know to help encourage a positive relationship between their child and their pediatrician is to be honest. She feels that keeping our children honestly informed about expectations will help ease fears and anxieties. Dr. Miriam Salvador suggests that parents tell their children what the appointment is for and that the pediatrician is there to help. Sometimes regular pediatrician appointments require immunizations and Dr. Miriam Salvador suggests that parents tell the children upfront that vaccines help us stay healthy and although it will sting for a moment, they will be fine. She also suggests that you advocate for your children to speak for themselves and ask their own questions during their appointment.
Be Informative
Giving our children necessary information will help ease fears and anxieties. I have a few children that get nervous about doctor appointments, so I tell them the day before the appointment.
Be Honest
Being honest about what to expect during a doctor’s visit will help ease fears and anxieties. Honesty really is the best policy.
Speak Positively about Doctors
Our children truly rely on us to know what’s best and if we speak positively about doctors and medicine then they will come to learn that doctors are there to help us.
Advocate To Ask Questions
As soon as your children are old enough to speak, Dr. Miriam Salvador suggests advocating for them to ask their doctors their own questions. It is their bodies and health after all.
Learn More
I hope that these simple tips to help establish a positive relationship between your child and their pediatrician were helpful. Log on to learn more and to find a Kaiser Permanente Orange County medical center near you.
