How to keep your child relaxed during a hospital stay

During the winter months, pediatric admissions to the hospital increase due to flu and respiratory infections. In hospitals, a team of Child Life specialists help parents and kids cope with being in the hospital. Here are some tips from them to reduce your child's fear during a scary and stressful time.

• Pack a bag. Bringing a blanket from home, as well as extra clothes, comfort items, cell phone charger, and your child's favorite things will help them feel more at home.
• Advocate. You are the expert and know your child better than anyone. Talk to your child's care team about what qualifies as normal or abnormal behavior for your child.
• Accept help. Hospital stays affect the whole family. Take a break, allow visitors, call a friend and lean on your support system
• Self-care. Take care of yourself so you can take care of your child; don't forget to eat, sleep and take breaks throughout their stay.
• Ask questions. Speak up, keep notes, write down questions for the care team, especially if your child requires care after they leave the hospital.
• Decorate the room. Hang up artwork, pictures, cards. Involve your child in the decoration so they can make the space their own.
• Get up. Encourage your child to get out of bed and out of the room. Visit the playroom, go for a walk or participate in child life activities.
• Be honest. Explain to your child what is happening and why in a developmentally appropriate way; ask them what they think is going to happen and create a coping plan
• Do not forget siblings. Your child's hospitalization impacts everyone in the family. Siblings can sometimes feel lost or forgotten, so make sure you pay attention to their feelings.
• Stick to a routine similar to home. Your child still needs structure; consistency, and rules or boundaries are important.
• Offer choices and control when possible. Your child's choices are valid; whether it's what movie to watch or to eat for dinner, let them have some control in a situation where they otherwise feel helpless.
• Take it one day at a time. Be patient, stay calm, be positive; identify something good that happened each day.