As a mother of a small child learning about the world around her, I am always looking for teaching opportunities. Lucy recently came to me with one of her twin baby dolls who she named Robbie (the other’s name is Ruby) and showed me his dangling arm that had been pulled from his soft fabric body. Naturally, as a pediatric nurse, I explained that he would need surgery.
I went through a simplistic version of what surgery would entail. We would give him medicine for pain, medicine to help him sleep and we would stick a tube in his mouth to help him breathe while he is sleeping. We went through the steps using household props including a toy syringe and a straw with some scotch tape for the endotracheal tube. I then proceeded to sew up the injury. As we went through the process I explained in simplistic terms what was happening and why. I asked her questions about any concerns or fears she might have.
Engaging through the process of pretend play has incredible benefits for toddlers and preschoolers. Introducing equipment and concepts seen in the hospital setting can lay a foundation of understanding. No parent wants a child admitted to the hospital, however when they have had exposure to what that experience might entail, this can decrease anticipatory fear and provide a concrete picture of various hospital processes. People, both children and adults, cannot process information under stress as well as they can in a calm and predictable environment. Introducing concepts and equipment that would be found in a clinic or hospital can allow children to learn and ask questions at their pace.
Once Robbie was all done with surgery, Lucy went back to playing with her dolls and other toys. As parents, when we talk with our children, it’s hard to know if they benefit from our words. I knew Lucy was processing what we practiced as she was excited to show and tell anyone who would listen about Robbie’s surgery. What pretend roles do you play with your children? Have you seen the benefits from these pretend sessions? I would love your feedback! Please comment below.
