Children who experience broken bones may also experience pain, confusion, sadness and a sense of isolation. After all, they may be precluded from participating in their favorite activities until the bone has healed. Fortunately, parents can take some steps to help their kids heal.
Follow the Doctor’s Instructions
It might seen fun to break a seemingly minor rule that the doctor has given. For example, the doctor might state that the cast absolutely cannot get wet, yet the kids are begging to go in the pool. Failure to follow the doctor’s orders might allow for a little bit of fun in the short term; however, it can protract the amount of time that it takes for the bone to heal. It is particularly important to care for the cast. Encouraging kids to listen to the doctor is just a healthy habit for life in general.
Stock the House
During the healing phase, the kids may need to spend more time in the house than usual, especially if they are on athletic teams or like to go swimming. However, parents don’t want their little ones to become bored, or the healing process can seem even worse. Taking favorite toys and games out of the closets and attics and setting them up in a accessible area is a good idea. While the period of healing should not be an excuse to gorge on junk food, it is certainly fine to stock the fridge with some treats that the kids enjoy. Relaxing and feeling comfortable are important.
Talk to the School
Some accommodations are likely going to have to be made in the school. For example, the kids will almost certainly be out of gym for an extended period of time, perhaps even after the cast is off. Also, parents may need to see what accommodations are available if any of the classrooms are located above the first floor of the building. Parents can also talk with teachers and administrators about steps to take during writing exercises, recess play and other activities that could be more difficult with the broken play.
Parents can definitely help their kids to heal. In fact, doing so is important so that children know to take the healing process seriously. Sometimes, this process will involve help from the school as well.