Sample draft for Melissa to review, edit or replace. Not a published article.
New places can feel big to kids. A little preparation ahead of time can help a first visit feel more familiar. Here are a few simple ideas.
Look at the office photos together
Seeing the room before you arrive helps a child picture where they're going. You can look through the office photos together and talk about what you notice.
Use simple, honest words
Keep it short and calm. Something like, "We're going to meet Melissa. She helps kids with feelings, and her office has things to play with." Try to frame it as support, not as a punishment or a sign that something is wrong with them.
Let them know what will happen
Kids do better when they know the plan: when you'll go, how long it will take, and where you'll be. If you're not sure about any of those details, it's okay to ask before the first visit.
Bring your questions
Parents get to have questions too. Writing them down ahead of time makes it easier to remember what you wanted to ask.
This article is general information, not therapy or medical advice.