Research shows that pre-operative teaching programs help children and families feel more comfortable on the day of surgery. Based on this research, the Child Life Specialists at The Scarborough Hospital have designed a pre-operative teaching program called “Hello Hospital”.

In “Hello Hospital”, the Child Life Specialists meet with children ages three to 13 and their families one to two weeks before their surgery to explain what to expect on their big day. Children and families tour the various departments they will see on their surgery day and have hands-on experience in each one. Parents are also prepared to accompany their child to the operating room where they will stay until their child is asleep. Special consideration is used when explaining the events of the day in developmentally- and age-appropriate language.

It is important that parents learn as much as possible about the surgery. If they feel comfortable and confident in what is happening with their child, then the child is more likely to feel the same.

One of the best things a parent can do for their child is to be honest, say Child Life Specialists Wanda Bowen, Michele Clark-Ward and Sue Regan. When children know what to expect, they are less anxious and have a greater sense of control over the situation. The Child Life Specialists believe, at the very least, all children should be told they are going to the hospital to have an operation.

Parents can also help by telling their child the people working in the hospital are there to help them. Parents should not make promises they may not be able to keep. For example, do not tell the child there will be no pain. Children may have different amounts of pain or discomfort following surgery.

Here are some other suggestions to use when preparing your child for surgery:

1. Play "hospital" using a doctor’s kit or pretend medical equipment.
2. Read a book together about the surgery (*see the recommended book list below).
3. Ask your child what comfort item they would like to bring from home: a favourite doll or teddy bear.
4. Use simple explanations that your child can understand.
5. Let your child know you will stay with them as much as possible.
6. Ask your child to draw a picture about going to the hospital.
7. Have your child help with packing the bag they will bring to the hospital.

Remember, your child will need all of your love, attention and support. Also, it is best to leave siblings at home on the day of surgery.

Tips for Parents – Common Questions to Ask:

1. How long will the operation take?
2. How will I know when the operation is over?
3. Where will my child be when I first see him/her?
4. How long do I have to wait before I can see my child?
5. How long will my child have to stay in the hospital?
6. Can I stay with my child if they need to sleep over?
7. How long do I have to wait before my child can eat or play?

Recommended Books:

1. Tubes in My Ears: My Trip to the Hospital, by Virginia Dooley and Miriam Katin (6-10 years)
2. Clifford Visits the Hospital, by Norman Bridwell (2-7 years)
3. Going to the Hospital, by Anne Civardi, Michelle Bates and Stephen Cartwright
4. A Visit to the Sesame Street Hospital, by Deborah Hautizig, Dan Elliott and Joseph Mathieu (2-3 years)
5. Franklin Goes to the Hospital, by Paulette Bourgeois and Brenda Clark (3-7 years)
6. Curious George Goes to the Hospital, by Margaret and H.A. Rey