Contact the Child Life Specialist at (972) 566-4735 to arrange a hospital tour and an appointment for a preparation session for your child before surgery. Touring the hospital before surgery can help your child see the sights, sounds, and events he/she will experience the day of surgery. The tour and preparation will help your child learn about the hospital and give him/her time to talk about concerns and questions.
Make sure your child knows why he/she is having surgery in words he/she can understand.
Have your child explain back to you what is going to happen in the hospital. School-aged children sometimes will listen carefully, but will not understand all that was said. This can help you to learn whether or not your child has a clear understanding of what lies ahead.
Encourage your child’s friends to visit the hospital, or to keep in touch with your child by telephone or with letters and cards.
Learn as much as you can about your child’s surgery. The more you know, the better you will be able to help explain things to your child.
A family member should stay with your child as much as possible. Always tell your child when you are leaving, why, and when you will be back. If your child will remain in the hospital for several days, ask family and friends to call and visit often.
Let your child know that it is acceptable to be afraid and to cry. Encourage him/her to ask questions of the physicians and nurses.
When your child is stressed, they may start regressing and/or displaying new fears, such as being afraid of the dark. Give many compliments and hugs. Provide comfort holding when possible instead of using restraints during tests and procedures.

Preparing your school-age child for surgery