Helpful Hints and Recommended Reading for Children and Parents

Here are a few helpful hints and recommended reading selections for children and parents to review before pediatric surgery.

Helpful Hints Before Surgery

• Read books about going to the hospital (see book list below).
• Bring your child’s favorite item of comfort on the day of surgery: toy, stuffed animal, blanket or favorite video.
• Offer honest and simple explanations about your child’s surgical experience.
• Try to remain calm. Children can easily sense anxiety and will follow your cue.

Book List

Preschool Children: (Ages 2 – 4 years)

• The Surgery Book for Kids by Shivani Bhatia, MD
• Going to the Hospital by Mister Rogers

School-aged Children: (Ages 4 – 8 years)

• Good-Bye Tonsils! by Craig Hatkoff
• Clifford Visits the Hospital by Norman Bridwell
• Clifford Visita el Hospital by Norman Bridwell
• Going to the Hospital (Usborne First Experiences) by Michelle Bates
• Curious George Goes to the Hospital by H.A. Rey
• Getting Your Child Ready for Outpatient Surgery by Jerry C. Vaughan
• Your Child in the Hospital: A Practical Guide for Parents by Nancy Keene
• Franklin Goes to the Hospital by Paulette Bourgeois

School-aged Children: (Ages 9 – 12 years)

• Let’s Talk About When You Have to Have Your Tonsils Out by Gordon, Melanie Apel