Aches & Pains

Recommended Tips

To a child, pain can be frightening. The best thing parents can do to help their child cope with pain is to simply be with him or her. Regardless of age, don't hesitate to hold and cuddle your child. "Kissing it better" still works like magic for minor bumps and scrapes.

Some other tips include:

• Distract your child by playing games, playing music, reading books or singing.
• Make sure your child is well rested. He or she can be more sensitive to pain when tired.
• Make sure your child is informed about his or her pain. Lying about pain teaches children to be mistrustful.
• Encourage your child to ask questions and express feelings about his or her pain.
• Deep and steady breathing or practicing relaxation techniques can reduce pain and give your child a feeling of control over his or her body.
• If the pain is the result of a sports injury, don't force your child to continue playing while in pain. A doctor should see the injury before your child resumes the sport.
• Young children sometimes believe that pain is a punishment, so make sure they know that it's not their fault. A bandage (even if not necessary) is often a comforting symbol. School age children know more about their bodies so simply reassure them that the pain will eventually go away.