Because of the increased prevalence of COVID-19 in our community, many are finding the need to get tested. I thought that it would be helpful to consider as few ways to prepare your child.

• Discuss the test with your child. Find out in advance whether you will need to wait in line or if you can do a drive thru. Explain the process step by step. If a nasal swab is used, learn how far it will go up the nose and how long the swab must be in the nose. If the test lasts 5 seconds, do a countdown.

• Let your child know that it might hurt a bit, but only for a short time. Explain why we are doing this: to stay healthy.

• Develop a social story about the process. This might be in pictures or words, depending on your child’s ability level. Begin to read the story a few days prior to the appointment.

• Determine an activity that your child can do while being swabbed – watching a video, playing with a favorite toy, something to distract him or her.

This can be an experience that for many children will create great anxiety, so preparation is the key. Ryan and I have not had to be tested, but I plan to go through these steps with him…just in case.

Stay safe and healthy!