Reading is a great way to familiarize children with new concepts. Here are some books recommended by the Center for Families at Children's Hospital Boston that can help you introduce your child to the idea of coming to the hospital.
Read books out loud to younger children, paying particular attention to the pictures for kids ages two to three. With all ages, discuss the story together, and use simple terms to help your child relate.
There are many more books that let kids know how the human body works, and many that include trips to the hospital or to the doctor by favorite characters like Clifford and the Berenstain Bears. (And, of course, there's Curious George's famous trip to Children's Hospital Boston!) But the following book list is a great place to start. These titles should be available at bookstores or your local library.
A Visit to the Sesame Street Hospital
(Random House, Inc.)
Grover learns that he needs an operation. He goes on a hospital tour with his mother and familiar Sesame Street friends to explore the hospital environment. (Ages 2-6)
Franklin Goes to the Hospital
by Paulette Bourgeois and Brenda Clark (Scholastic)
Franklin's shell has cracked, and he needs to be a brave turtle when it's time to go to the hospital. (Ages 3-7)
Going to the Hospital
by Fred Rogers (PaperStar Book: The Putnam & Grosset Group)
This book uses real-life pictures of children, parents, and hospital staff. It describes different parts of a hospital stay. (Ages 3-8)
Tubes in My Ears: My Trip to the Hospital
by Virginia Dooley (Mondo Publishing)
Luke undergoes surgery for placement of ear tubes. Children about to undergo any kind of surgery will enjoy learning from Luke as he retells his story. (Ages 6-10)
Jessica's X-Ray: Includes Actual X-Rays!
by Pat Zonta and Clive Dobson (Firefly Books)
When six-year-old Jessica falls and breaks her arm, the doctor orders X-rays. At first she's scared, but a reassuring technician explains how everything works. (Ages 6-10)
The Moonballoon: A Journey of Hope and Discovery for Children and Families
by Joan Drescher (Assoc. for the Care of Children's Health)
This interactive book gives children the opportunity to create their own stories of hope and discovery about their health care experience. (Ages 7-12)
Your Child in the Hospital: A Practical Guide for Parents
by Nancy Keene and Rachel Prentice (O'Reilly & Associates, Inc.)
This book helps parents prepare a child physically and emotionally for a hospital experience, including an outpatient test or overnight stay. (Adult)
