Helping a child prepare for a visit

Bring the child’s information

Bring medical and vaccination records and any current medication list. The accompanying adult should know recent changes and the family’s questions. Specific information helps focus the discussion.

Use simple explanations

Describe where you are going and whom the child will meet in age-appropriate language. A familiar item may help if the facility allows it. Avoid promises about parts of the visit you cannot be sure of.

Clarify before leaving

Understand the next step, follow-up and contact route for questions. Ask staff to explain again or write down instructions if anything is unclear.