Preparing your child for a new situation

Children can often be frightened by new places or experiences such as a first haircut or dentist appointment. This is understandable as they are used to a world of familiar things and all of a sudden they are sitting in this big chair with a masked person coming at them with loud buzzing tools. Who wouldn't be scared? When kids are prepared for a unfamiliar situation they will most likely do better because they will know what to expect.

Here are some tips to use when preparing your child for a new situation:

1 - Read a children's book - Choose a book that includes the upcoming event. Talk about the book and how the characters handled the situation. Ask your child to imagine other possible scenarios.

2 - Incorporate the event during playtime with your child - For example, if your child has an upcoming dentist appointment, set up a makeshift dentist office with a desk, waiting area and some items to use as tools. Act out what will happen in the reception area and then lead the child to the "dentist chair."

3 - Get creative - In keeping with the dentist situation, use a cloth or bandanna that will mimic how the dentist will look in his mask. If you have an electric shaver or small appliance available that will make a noise similar to that of a drill, incorporate that during play so your child will not be as surprised by the noise.

4 - Take a tour - If possible, bring your child ahead of time to visit the location of the new experience.

5 - Children's museums or events - Keep an eye out for exhibits that may assist you in preparing your child. For example, Sciworks has an area called "HealthWorks" which has several doctor and dentist tools. Check out the Greensboro Children's Museum and the Children's Museum of Winston-Salem as they may also have helpful exhibits.

We hope that these tips help you in preparing your child for a new situation. Please let us know what works for your family as it may help others.