Other ways include learning special deep breathing and relaxation skills. Specialists can also help use imagination skills, rewarding children with stickers, praise and small treats or special activities for appropriate behavior. It is often useful to practice positions to take during a procedure. Since children are often afraid of medical procedures, it is helpful to prepare the child by explaining to him or her ahead of time what will happen. This must be done in a way that he or she can understand.
Dolls can be very useful.
This gives the child time to accept the idea, and takes out some of the mystery. It may help the child to practice different ways to behave during the treatment to reduce the pain and anxiety. Children are often less afraid if their parents are present during a treatment and they can touch their mom or dad. Sometimes parents actually help position and hold the child during bone marrows and spinal taps. If you are present, it is important for you to be brave and calm.