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Posted: Sep 27, 2011 2:14 PM CDT
Updated: Sep 27, 2011 2:21 PM CDT
Posted by Micca Terrell
NASHVILLE, TN (WSMV) - The Vanderbilt Kennedy Center and Autism Speaks have teamed up to create a free guide to help parents of autistic children better prepare for medical visits and procedures.
It has pictures and simple language that allow parents and children to discuss ahead of time what will happen at the doctor's office, thus reducing anxiety, according to Cassandra Newsom, Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at the Vanderbilt Kennedy Center.
One of the key tips, Newsom said, is distraction. "Things like bubbles, iPads, iPhones and toys that flash or blink can keep a child's attention away from whatever procedure the medical professional is doing."
Newsom said there is one thing that parents do not want to do, and that is to lie to their child about what to expect. She said that it's best not to say a procedure will not hurt, and to instead compare that pain to something the child will understand, such as the feeling of a big pinch or sting.
Newsom said the kit also works for children with disabilities other than autism.
You can download a free copy from Autism Speaks.
