The only thing I hate more than going to a doctor or dentist is taking my child to a doctor or dentist. First of all, I am not good at it. As much as I try to put on brave front, my anxiety is pretty obvious, especially if my kids overhear me begging my husband to go in my place. However, I have learned some methods which have seemed to make the process a little easier for me as well as for my children.

Pick a Child-Friendly Pediatric Office
Let's face it, in this circumstance a child needs as many distractions as possible. A boring doctor's office will only mean more time for your child to reflect on all the yucky things that may happen to him. Many doctor's offices have video rooms playing animated movies and kid-friendly books, magazines or games. The exam rooms should be interesting with animal murals or fun colors. Finally, a treasure box of stickers, small toys or, at least lolly-pops is a must!

Be Honest
Unless you are absolutely, 100%, could-stake-your-life-on-it sure that your child is not going to get a shot, don't promise her visit will be pain-free. Your child might feel betrayed and be even more resistant to going to the doctor the next time.

Role-play
It's time to pretend! Listen to each other's heart or examine each other's teeth. Take turns playing the doctor and patient. Your child's favorite stuffed bunny can also be a patient in this make-believe clinic. Another idea is to allow your child to be a super-hero. Let him wear a cape to the appointment and encourage him to be brave. Processing the scary stuff through play will make your child better prepared for the trip to the doctor or dentist.

Watch a Movie
Although there are many wonderful children's books on this subject, "Elmo Visits the Doctor" is a delightful movie where preschoolers can join Elmo on his first trip to the doctor. Other Sesame Street characters join Elmo including my old friends Ernie and Bert. I enjoyed it as much as my son - the first time I saw it - now that I am on the 426th viewing, Ernie and Bert are not as charming. Still, it is a wonderful movie and a great tool to prepare your child for the doctor.

Offer incentives rather than awards
Don't entice your child with a reward for good behavior because chances are, she is not going sit quietly when the nurse appears with the shot. Instead, offer an incentive like a fun activity after the visit regardless how your child behaved. A trip to the zoo, a stop at the park or an ice cream treat can add a happy ending to a visit to the doctor or dentist. You can even make it part of your routine making the occasional trip to the doctor less dreadful.

Although there is no way to make a trip to the doctor or dentist a prescription for fun, you can take some steps to make the process less painful for both you and your child. Remember, your child is looking to you as a gauge for fear. If you pass-out at the site of needless, recruit another family member to accompany your child - or borrow my Elmo DVD. After seeing it as many times as I have, a trip to the doctor will seem like a piece of cake!

To get your copy of "No Shots for Me" by Daphne Shaw, go to www.noshotsforme.com or call 817-335-3255!

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