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January 11, 2022
Given the uptick of COVID variants and cases, children may be experiencing even greater anxiety about sickness and death. As a provider, you can help parents give children a clear and age-appropriate explanation of this crisis, and this may stop them from making up their own explanations, which can be scary or inaccurate. Being available and willing to answer specific questions from patients can also help children feel safe and express any lingering worries. For more…
Read moreJanuary 4, 2022
Research shows that giving attention to any behavior – positive or negative – increases the likelihood that you’ll see more of it. In the exam room, you can use the power of praise to notice and comment on positive behaviors and model this technique for parents. Try something like, “Great job taking in a deep breath. That really helps…
Read moreDecember 28, 2021
Many bilingual or non-native English speaking caregivers ask about the potential impact of multiple languages in the home. You can reassure them that research shows that being bilingual has MANY advantages for kids, and that there is no known language delay. In addition, in order to teach the variety and depth of language and emotion,…
Read moreDecember 21, 2021
In stressful moments, many children can benefit from shifting their focus out of the exam room and onto something else. Once you’ve validated any feelings a child has, you can suggest an activity or exercise to help them shift their focus away from the procedure or exam. That may go something like this, “It’s normal…
Read moreDecember 14, 2021
Storytelling serves many purposes. It can help to build memory, imagination, attention and focus. It can connect children to generations past and present, raise cultural awareness and build a positive sense of identity. Here are a few ways to incorporate storytelling into your next visit: Ask patients over 3 to tell you about a holiday…
Read moreDecember 7, 2021
As you know, many caregivers may avoid doing tummy time, since babies often get a little fussy when on their tummy. By modeling and discussing it in the visit, you can help caregivers understand how important tummy time is to build a child’s autonomy, self-regulation, and motor skills. Your words can encourage caregivers to do it throughout the day and give them strategies to help their baby be less distressed during it! See…
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