Tips on…how to be child friendly
All GPs come across children in their practice. How we engage with them plays an important role to having a successful consultation with them. Here are some tips on how to make your contact with them enjoyable for both parties:
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Do’s |
Don’ts |
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Smile (or look sad) as appropriate |
Don’t rush them |
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Maintain good eye contact |
Don’t stand over a child |
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Look calm; it shows you are in control |
Don’t use force |
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Acknowledge and greet the child |
Don’t promise things you cannot deliver: be truthful instead. |
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Talk to the parents first; this way you give the child time & space to relax |
Don’t express your frustration. |
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Give simple and clear information |
Avoid blame and criticism. |
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Take time to state your expectations |
Don’t expect different things at different ages; try to communicate on the child’s level. |
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Act out; imitating with a doll what you are going to do with the child often helps |
Don’t rush-avoid asking too many questions. |
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Give them choice; this empowers them: “would you like to be examined on your own, or on mummy’s lap?” |
Don’t rush with answers; give them time to answer, as well as time to understand what you have said to them. |
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Play; adapt yourself to the situation; children engage better when they are having fun. |
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Use distraction: talk about their interests, their school, their likes and dislikes while you examine. |
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Children like to hear positive things about themselves; by giving them praise enthusiastically you hit the emotional jackpot. |
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Acknowledge the child’s feelings; appreciate their struggle with a word: “mmm….”, “I see…”. Congratulate them on their effort. |
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Have some quick fixes up your sleeve-give stickers or other rewards if they have been good, etc. |
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Bibliography
Gada S: “Tips on how to
be child friendly”, BMJ Careers,