Prepare for Care Kit Whether your child is about to have major surgery or a routine check-up – or is about to get their COVID-19 vaccine – a little preparation can help them feel comfortable. That’s Connecticut Children’s specialty! Our experts have lots of tips and tricks to support kids on their health journeys. Here, we’ve gathered our best advice to use at home. Does your child need care? Schedule a Video Visit or book an in-person appointment close to home. What to Expect at Your Baby’s First Check-UpNew parents face lots of surprises, but their newborn’s first trip to the doctor shouldn’t be one of them. Here’s what to expect. Learn More 4 Things Parents Should Know About Ear Tube SurgeryIt’s the most common surgery for kids in the U.S., and it lasts less than 15 minutes. From the procedure through recovery, here’s what to know. Learn More How to Prepare Your Child for the COVID-19 VaccineThe vaccine is now available to kids as young as 5, who might need a bit more support around needles and doctors. Try these tips. Learn More How to Prepare a Child With Special Needs for a Doctor’s Visit. Get ready! You can show your child what will happen using play, explore ways to stay calm, and even practice some steps at home. Learn More 16 Comfort Items to Bring to Your Child’s AppointmentChoose a few trusty items to keep your child relaxed – and entertained – at the pediatrician’s office. Here are ideas. Learn More 13 Tips to Prevent Needle Phobia Vaccines keep us healthy, but for some kids (and adults), they’re also linked to a genuine fear of needles. These tips can help. Learn More Questions for Your Teen to Ask Their DoctorDoes your teen feel confident speaking up at doctor’s appointments? Here’s how to empower them in their health decisions. Learn More What to Expect If Your Child Is Diagnosed With a Heart Murmur Lots of murmurs are harmless, some go away on their own, and some need special care. Here’s what happens next. Learn More How to Prepare Your Child for SurgeryWhen should you tell your child about their procedure, and how? How can you give them a sense of control? We cover all this, and more. Learn More Explaining Anesthesia to Younger KidsFrom how “sleepy medicine” works to what it smells like, here’s how to explain anesthesia in words that young kids understand. Learn More Pack a Go-Bag for Unexpected ED TripsGather everything now, so you’ll be ready when it matters. Think: Your child’s important records, comfort items, and (of course) snacks. Learn More Emergency Room, Urgent Care or Video Visit?It’s stressful enough when your child is sick or injured. It’s more stressful if you’re not sure where to take them. We break it down. Learn More
