different way to describe medical stuff to kids

[steffipoo]

Hi as you know I am in school going for my master in child life. Now that I am knee deep more like neck deep in my core classes I am larning soo much and thought I'd share a bit of what I am learning. This section deals with explaining medical stuff in a different softer way or at least in a much more concrete manner so young and even older kids can more readily understand.

Heres a few...u can use at home

Rather than saying, "The medicine will taste(or smell) bad
How bout?
The medicine may taste or smell different than anything you have ever tasted before. After you take it will you tell me how it was for you?

"as big as" ( in medicine this can refer to a needle but at home it could take on another totally different concept

Say "Smaller than"

"as long as "
say "less time than it takes you to"

"as much as"
say "less than"

This is an example of taking a hard statement and turning it into a soft statement. I liked these and they've worked with my kids

Now another one that can be used at home .This basically avoids telling a person what they feel or experienced without asking them first.

Instead of " that was very hard for you" , or " you are scared/angry/sad"

say
"How was that for you? Was it easier or harder than you thought it would be? Is there something else we should tell other people about this?"

well thats it thought it was kinda neat

[ALLISA]

Thanks for sharinf Steff.....

It is sooo true that the way in which things are presented make all the differnce and if parents look like they are wavering or unsure, then kids pick up on htat and feel the same....

[mommygwen]

That is awsome advice!!!

Thank you for telling us all.

Gwen