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If you are the parent of a child who has autism or other specials needs, you know that taking them to the doctor can be a challenge. It can feel stressful and overwhelming for both you and them. However, there are ways to help you and your child feel more at ease beforehand and even during the visit.

Early Autism Services wrote a great article that outlines some practical tips to help guide you and your child through your next visit to the doctor. As they state in the article, “No one likes doctor visits! It can be a scary place for children, especially those with a disability, or those that cannot understand verbal language quite well.”

So, what can you do to help your child’s next doctor visit seem less scary? Here are some suggestions:

• Before the visit, buy some play doctor’s instruments such as a stethoscope and play with your child to show them what they can expect during the visit.
• Show your child videos or picture books, both beforehand and during the visit, that give examples of what will happen when they are at the doctor’s office.
• Have a reward system in place. Come prepared to give your child a special toy or treat and tell them they can have it during or after the visit.

Read the entire article here to get some more tips on how to guide your child through their next visit to the doctor.

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