brave the child was for receiving the immunizations and that it will make them stronger and healthy.” “Doctor playsets are helpful because they help to desensitize the child to certain parts of the exam, such as listening to the heart and lungs, checking their mouth and ears, and even giving shots,” adds Dr. Diep. “It is important that children don’t view going to the doctor’s office as a bad thing or that they are being punished.” In fact, going to a healthcare provider is not only a requirement to be able to go to school in Hawaii, but it is also imperative to be able to grow happily and healthily. To schedule a well-child visit with Dr. Diep or for more information, contact 808945-9955 or pediatrics@doctordiep.com. such as in Asia, require that all children receive the BCG vaccine, which is a vaccine to help protect kids against TB. There are also countries where TB is more prevalent, so anyone with frequent travel or born in those countries will also need screening.” How can parents prepare their child for a trip to the doctor? “Discussing with your child about what to expect from a doctor’s visit prior to the visit is important. This allows them to already know the different steps so that there are no surprises,” encourages Dr. Diep. “Discussion with children about what immunizations are and desensitizing them to it by role playing is helpful to make it seem less scary. It is also good to focus on the benefits of vaccination, and about how Prioritizing your child’s health with immunizations and physical exams sets the stage for a successful school year. “Discussing with your child about what to expect from a doctor’s visit prior to the visit is important.” 146 HAWAII PARENT May/June 2024
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