Children of elementary age are old enough to require clear and concise information about surgery. While they are old enough to have significant fears about surgery, they tend to keep their worries to themselves and will silently worry about concerns that may seem strange to an adult. Your preschool-aged child will require reassurances that they are not being punished, that they will survive the surgery and that their pain will be controlled.
Depending upon the age of your child, they may worry that they will be left alone and may repeatedly ask where you will be during the procedure. They may also fall into the “are we there yet” syndrome, so giving children more than a week’s notice may not be a good idea, based upon the maturity of the child.
After surgery, children this age will want to be in touch with their friends, and visits should be encouraged when appropriate. At this point in recovery, your child may be caught between feeling like a child, and wanting to be mature at the same time. Hugs and reassurances are important for all age groups, but preschool aged children may require more than other children but be unwilling to express the need.
If your child enjoys coloring, this Printable Surgery Coloring Book may help to answer their questions and provide entertainment at the same time. This age group will also be very receptive to having a tour of the hospital and operating rooms when they are available.
