Preparing for Doctor & Dentist Visits

Medical appointments can be scary due to new environments, strange sensory inputs, and lack of control. Preparation is the antidote to fear.

The "Preview" Strategy

Social Stories: Read a simple story with pictures that explains exactly what will happen: "First we drive to the office. Then we wait in the lobby. Then the nurse calls our name."
Videos: Watch videos of a child getting a checkup so they can see the sounds and sights in a safe way.

Practice Through Play

Get a toy doctor kit and practice at home. Let your child be the doctor and check your ears. Then switch roles. Practice opening their mouth wide like a lion for the dentist. Familiarity reduces anxiety.

Desensitization

If the blood pressure cuff is a trigger, we might work on just touching the cuff, then putting it on loosely, then tightening it for one second, rewarding each step of tolerance.

During the Visit

• Bring comfort items: A favorite toy or blanket.
• Use visuals: A "First/Then" board (First Doctor, Then Ice Cream).
• Advocate: Tell the provider beforehand about your child's needs. "Please tell him before you touch him."

We Can Help

Our therapists can work on these specific toleration skills during sessions, turning a potentially traumatic event into a manageable one.