Communicating with children DR/FATMA AL-THOUBAITY Surgical Consultant & Associate professor .KAUH.
Cognitive developmental level The sensory motor stage (0-2 years). Learning is centered around the child. Little connection to outside. the pre-operational stage (2-7). The concrete operational stage (7-12). The formal operational stage (13-adulthood).
Strategies for communicating with children Some of young children 3-7 years can actively participate in health communication. Communicate at the cognitive level . Ask open ended questions. Use simple sentences. Ask if he has a question. Use verbal, non-verbal and written communication.
Summary Educate children and their parents about health. Use patient centered communication. Understand the cognitive level. Investigate and listen to concerns ad fears for both the child and parent. Assess how they perceive the medicine. Ask if there is any questions.