Parents & Carers | Preparing your child


It is important to explain to your child why they are coming into hospital in a way that they will understand. Some parents find it difficult as their child may become upset or worried by what is being said. Here is a list of things you might find helpful when explaining the hospital admission to your child:

Choose a time when it is quiet and you won't be interrupted
   
Use storybooks, leaflets or pictures to help you explain

These books are very helpful; you should be able to find them in your local library.

"When I went to hospital" by Juliet Bawden

"Going into hospital" by Anne Civardi

Or contact our Play Centre (0121 333 8650) for a copy of the colouring book

Let's talk about your stay in hospital

Action for Sick Children also produce free leaflets to prepare your child for hospital. Please phone their national office on 0207 843 6444.

Or visit our website www.actionforsickchildren.org for more information

Encourage your child to play with a hospital set, if you have one, or pretend to be doctors and nurses
   
You can arrange to visit the ward or department when you know which one your child will be going to. You can contact them directly and the staff will be happy to arrange a visit or tell you about any pre-admission clinics they organise
   
If you or your child are worried, you can contact the Play Centre. The staff there will be happy to advise you or can arrange to see your child before their admission
   
If your child is going to have an operation, answer their questions honestly. Explain that they will have a special sleep (anaesthetic), they might feel a little sore afterwards but the nurses will give them some medicine to help them feel better. Reassure your child that you will be able to stay with them
   
Involve your child in planning for their admission by deciding what special toy to take with them, helping them choose which pyjamas to take or buying something new to take with them, for example a new toothbrush
   
If you have any questions about preparing your child please contact the Play Centre on 0121 333 8650 or the ward or department that your child will be visiting - this should be written on your admission letter.
 
 
 


© Copyright Birmingham Children's Hospital NHS Trust Steelhouse Lane B4 6NH
Telephone: Tel: 0121 333 9999 Fax: 0121 333 9998

Please send your comments on the Trust website to: webmaster@bch.nhs.uk