Doctor Fear: A Normal Response
Seven Months to Three Years
You enter the parking lot and your child cries and screams
"What happened to the child of my dreams?"
From seven to nine months, stranger anxiety and memory develop,
Upon seeing the doctor, terror may envelop.
No matter what their temperament is before,
Coming to the office may not represent their lore.
Apologies are not necessary,
Reducing their anxiety (not completely)
You may wish to query.*
Lester J. Hartman, MD
*1) Buy and play with a doctor's kit.
2) Bring a doll or a stuffed animal to examine.
3) Read a book on going to the doctor.
4) Elicit the help of an older sibling during the exam.
5) Undress your child on your lap (and not on the exam table). Allow your child to be examined in your lap. Don't force T-shirts or socks off (especially of toddlers).