Rees Bear has an anaesthetic

A story for younger children about having an anaesthetic

We have designed this leaflet for you to read with your child and to help them to prepare for their anaesthetic. It will introduce some of the people they may meet and some of the things which might happen. You can substitute the person or people in the pictures with whoever will go to the hospital with your child as this will vary between families. Explain to your child why you are reading them this story. It is important to find out what the story means to them and see if they have any questions. 

It can help to allow your child to play out the story and deal with any worries they may have using a familiar toy. Some children may choose to draw or paint about their feelings. 

If your child is over the age of three, we suggest you prepare them during the week before their anaesthetic. For children under three, we suggest you prepare them the day before coming to the hospital. However, please take your own child’s understanding into consideration.