You had a fun afternoon planned, maybe a visit to the public library after school, but your child started feeling under the weather. Now, instead of picking out books, you’re heading to the clinic. It’s a sudden change, and for little ones, that can be upsetting, especially when it means going somewhere they might be nervous about.

If your child is feeling anxious about an urgent care visit, you’re not alone. Whether it’s their first time or they’ve had a not-so-great experience in the past, it’s completely normal for kids to feel uneasy about to the clinic, especially when they’re not feeling their best.

The good news? With a few simple tricks, you can help ease their worries and turn a stressful trip into a more positive (and maybe even fun) experience.

Stop by AFC Urgent Care Statesville today, we’re here to make your family’s visit as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Before Leaving Home

Kids usually feel better when they know what’s going on. But when a trip to urgent care pops up out of nowhere, it can throw them off. The unfamiliar setting, new faces, and possibility of tests can make little ones feel nervous or unsure.

Here are a few reasons your child might feel uneasy:

• Worry about getting a shot or a test
• Not wanting to be away from a parent, even for a moment
• Remembering a visit that wasn’t so great
• Feeling uncomfortable in a new environment

To make things easier, try:

• Checking in online to cut down on time in the waiting room
• Bringing a small comfort kit with snacks, toys, and something to color
• Talking about the visit ahead of time with positive, simple language
• Reminding them that the clinic team is there to help them feel better
• Letting them bring a favorite toy or blanket for extra comfort

With a little prep, you can help your child feel calm, safe, and even a little bit brave.

While You Are At AFC Statesville

Having a few things ready ahead of time, like snacks, a favorite toy, or your child’s health info, can really make a difference once you get to the clinic. Even if you know everything will be okay, your child might still feel nervous. That’s why staying calm and reassuring is so important.

Here’s how you can help:

• Stay relaxed, since kids often mirror your emotions
• Answer their questions in simple, honest terms
• Praise them for being brave, even for small things like sitting still
• Remind them of something fun planned afterward, like a movie night or trip to the park

Sometimes a gentle distraction helps your child relax, and it also gives the provider something to chat about with your little one. This kind of light conversation can make the visit feel a little less scary.

Learn more about our pediatric care.

Why AFC Statesville?

When your child’s not feeling well, the last thing you need is a stressful medical visit. At AFC Urgent Care Statesville, we care for patients as young as 6 months old with a team trained in making kids (and their parents) feel heard, comforted, and cared for.

Why parents trust us:

• Gentle, kid-savvy medical staff
• A relaxed space that puts children at ease
• Care that’s fast but never rushed

We’re here to support your family through sniffles, scrapes, and everything in between. Walk in or check in online today!