Cause and effect may be switched, which can lead to the child feeling things in a different way. They may have difficulty in sorting out inner feelings from the real world outside. For example, pain can seem to a child as something coming from the outside only, but it can also be from within.
The child has a rough understanding of what is inside their body. They see all their bodily parts as vulnerable and often have a big fear of bodily injury. It is therefore important to stress which part of their body is going to be treated, and which parts will not be involved. As children in this age group can easily have feelings of guilt, it is also important to explain to them that the illness or situation is not their fault.
Up until they reach school age, children have a big fear of the unknown in the form of trolls, ghosts or masked figures. Certain children can therefore react with fear when they see staff with their hair covered or wearing a surgical mask.
Preparing a child in this age group should be kept short and simple. Children learn through play and a “doctor’s bag” can therefore be very useful. Preschool children have a limited sense of time. Preparing them is best spread out over a week, and then give them more details a day or two before going to hospital.