Prepare for an Appointment

Visit our what to bring page for details on what to pack for you and your child for an upcoming appointment.

Communicating with your care team

Some parents and caregivers may benefit from bringing a support person to their child's appointment for emotional support, and to listen and take notes while the care team shares information.

As family members are partners in care, we value families and patient’s choices, knowledge and authority as decision-makers. Care teams are committed to providing the information needed to enable informed decisions about treatment and care and are open to varied views and choices.

The Provincial Health Services Authority provides free interpreting services in more than 200 languages, from American Sign Language to Zyphe. Services are available to patients and families 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you would like an interpreter to be present when you meet with your child or youth's care team, please tell them before your appointment.

If your child or youth receiving care has siblings and you do not have child care options, you can contact our Sibling Support Centre.

Communicating with your child

Toddlers

Your child's most significant concern at this age is being away from you. Staying with your child as much as possible during their hospital stay will make your child feel more secure. If you must leave the hospital for work or other commitments, please let your care team know so we can support your child in your absence.

Encourage your child to express fears and concerns. Explain, in a way that the child can understand, why the hospital stay is necessary.

Preschool

Children in this age group fear harm to their bodies. They have a higher level of self-awareness compared to toddlers. When preparing them for an upcoming visit or procedure, avoid using words or phrases that may have different meanings. Use simple, clear language that they understand.

For example, when explaining surgical anesthesia, you could say, "The doctors will help you to take a nap for a few hours."

School-age children

Children older than six can sometimes worry about losing control, as well as harm to their bodies. Your child may also worry about doing or saying embarrassing things while under anesthesia.

Be open with them. Don't deny that there may be pain after surgery. Explain that we will give them medicine that will help them to feel as comfortable as possible.

Teenagers

Teenagers may be reluctant to ask questions, leading you to believe they understand more than they do. Encourage your teenager to ask the doctors and nurses questions about their condition. Include teenagers in discussions about their care plan, if appropriate, to increase their sense of control.

Visit our Child Life page for further information about communicating with your child before an appointment.