Helping your child prepare for surgery

You're doing everything you can to help your child feel ready, and that already makes a difference.

this 8-page printable guide was written by a Certified Child Life Specialist with 10+ years of pediatric hospital experience to help you feel confident walking into surgery day.
inside you'll find:

• exactly what to say (and what to avoid) when talking to your child about surgery
• how to use medical play to reduce fear before the procedure
• a child-friendly medical glossary so your kid understands what's happening
• what to expect emotionally after surgery, and how to support your child through it
• surgery day comfort strategies that actually work 
• an encouraging note for you, because this is hard for parents too

this guide is for you if:

• your child has an upcoming surgery or procedure
• you're not sure how to explain what's going to happen
• you want to feel prepared, not just hopeful

download, print or read on any device. no waiting, no shipping.

created by Diane Morales, MS, CCLS II — Certified Child Life Specialist and founder of Adventures in Child Life