You can use a diagram of the intestinal tract to explain how it works and what has gone wrong. Encourage your child to write down questions. When children are anxious, they may forget what they're told. Give your child a small blackboard or notebook in which to write questions. Later, he can discuss these with you and with his physician.
Proper preparation is essential.
Fear of such procedures as diagnostic tests or surgery is normal. Concrete explanations of particular procedures can relieve some of this anxiety. Don't overwhelm your child with details. Consider your child's age, level of understanding, personality, and attention span. Too many details may confuse her.