Preparing a 2 1/2 Year Old for Upcoming Surgery

M., first thank you so much for being able to bring this out! I'm looking at my son going in for surgery in another year or two, he's three now but all of his other surgeries were before 1 yr. One thing I've learned, as a nurse, is to demonstrate on a baby doll, or stuffed animal. Let him see where the doctor and nurses will be touching and discuss what they are going to do. 2 yr olds are very good at understanding simple, immediate information. I would speak to his Dr. about this first and designate a time that the nurse could review it with him close to the operation, as they tend to have short attention spans. Best of luck and we'll keep him and your family in our prayers!!!

Hi M.,

It sounds like you have done a lot to prepare him already. You are obviously a very kind and loving mom. I will keep you and your family in my prayers. The one thing I can suggest is when reading the book about curious george going to the hospital, explain that what curious george is doing, your son will be doing as well. You may have already done that. Also, there are other children's books on surgery and hospitals. I would google that and see what you can find. The more you are prepared, the more your child will feel safe. I can imagine how scary that can be. Not sure if you are a spiritual person, but even if you are not, God will guide you through it. Just trust that it will work out, and it will. Children are very brave. If you are strong for him, and trust that things will go well, he will feel confident and secure. It is wonderful that you have a loving family to support you. :) Blessings to you and your family. I just know the surgery will go well. :)

Katherine

Hey im sorry to hear you son is having surgery. I would recommend (what i did with my daughter) We definately went to the hospital in advance so she could see what it was like and there was no mystery. The other thing i did which was great was buy a toy (i think it was a talking care bear) that had a medical kit with it pertend blood pressure cuff, stethascope, bandaids, etc. The care bear depending on where you pressed it would say ouch - xan I have a bandaid...etc. Even without the care bear it would be great to prepare him for people constantly taking a temp and blood pressure and let him do it to you. Good luck - hope it helps. Good LUCK.

M.-
You sound like you are doing a wonderful job w/ the book and the suitcase!! Kudos to you..I pray the surgery goes well and for a fast recovery. Take care! M.

My son who is now 28 years old had kidney surgery when he was 2.We were very fortunate.He happened to have his favorite bear there and he came back from surgery with the bear fixed up just like him.The staff had put a bandage everywhere my son had one.It really helped in the immediate days following surgery.Good Luck!