Explaining Surgery to Kids: A Parent's Guide
How do you tell your child you're having surgery?
When I had a big surgery scheduled last fall, my first and biggest concern was how best to prepare my kids. As a child therapist, I had alot of knowledge and collegues to support me in preparing to tell them. Since there is a limited amount of information available online on this topic, I wanted to share what I compiled with more parents!
Going through surgery can be scary, especially when you have kids. In this blog post, we'll look at simple and effective ways to talk to your children about your upcoming surgery. By making it easier for them to understand, you can make the process smoother for everyone. Here is a list of what I learned along the way.
- Let them know what to expect:
Start by explaining why you need surgery in a way that's easy for your child to understand. Use simple words and say something like, "Mommy or Daddy is going to the hospital to fix something in their body and feel better." Keep it straightforward, so they're not confused.
Prepare them for any changes - Will you be moving slower? Sleeping more than usual for a few days? Let them know.
Add any detail that they might need to know, such as if they need to be gentle when they give you hugs or if you might need their help cleaning up toys. - Focus on Good Things:
Talk about how the surgery will make you feel better. Let them know it's a good thing. This can help them feel less worried and more positive about it. - Give them Choices:
When you can, let them make choices related to the surgery. For example, ask if they want to bring a favorite toy to the hospital or pick a special meal for when you come home. It helps them feel like they have some control over a situation that might feel out of their control. - Help them feel safe:
Remind your kids that they will be cared for, tell them who will meet their needs while you are away. - Check In:
After you explain things, ask your child to tell you what they understood. This helps make sure they get what's happening and gives them a chance to ask questions if they're confused or scared.
Clear communication and reassurance can help everyone feel secure and safe during a challenging time. Using these tips will help children feel more comfortable and involved in the process. If you need extra support in managing your child's emotional needs during the process, a child therapist can help! Reach out to IFC if you're in Chicago or the surrounding suburbs and we can get you set up for child or parent counseling to be a guide to you and your child during this season of life!
