I'm Getting a Checkup
#2 in I'm Your Child Series
on Goodreads (30)
What’s inside...
This book provides a concrete and kid-friendly approach to help alleviate fears about going to the doctor. It follows three children and their parents as they visit their pediatricians for a typical checkup. Readers will learn about the different tools doctors and nurses use, through upbeat illustrations featuring a diverse cast of characters and breezy rhymed text that guides them through a physical examination step by step. The book includes an author's note by Marilyn Singer.
Discussion points
How did the characters feel about getting a checkup? Can you relate to any of their feelings?
What are some of the tools the doctor used in the book? What do you think they are used for?
Why do you think it is important to visit the doctor regularly?
How do you think the characters felt after their checkup was over?
If you were to write a story about a visit to the doctor, what would happen in your story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what they know about doctor's visits and if they remember their last checkup. This helps set a personal connection to the story.
While reading, point out the expressions on the characters' faces and ask your child to guess how they might be feeling. This builds empathy and understanding.
After reading, encourage your child to talk about any fears or uncertainties they might have about doctor's visits. Reassure them by relating back to how the characters in the book managed their feelings.
Use the book as an opportunity to role-play a doctor's visit with your child, using toys or household items as 'doctor's tools'. This makes the concept more familiar and less intimidating.
Encourage your child to draw a picture of their own ideal doctor’s visit, focusing on what would make them feel safe and happy. Discuss their drawing to gain more insights into their thoughts and feelings.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding the importance of regular health checkups
Explanation: The book follows a child through the process of getting a checkup, demonstrating each step in a friendly manner.
Real-World Application: Children can relate this to their own experiences with doctor's visits, helping them feel more comfortable and understanding the purpose of regular health checks.
Example Lesson: Learning about bodily autonomy and consent
Explanation: During the checkup, the child in the story is asked for permission before being examined, teaching the concept of consent.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand that they have control over their own bodies and the right to say no, fostering a sense of security and self-respect.
Example Lesson: Importance of asking questions and being curious
Explanation: The protagonist asks questions about the tools and procedures, highlighting an inquisitive mind.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be curious and ask questions in real-world situations, whether at the doctor's office or in new environments, promoting active learning and engagement.
Example Lesson: Managing fears and anxiety
Explanation: The book addresses common fears associated with doctor visits by showing the child overcoming nervousness through understanding.
Real-World Application: This narrative can help children manage their own anxieties about unfamiliar situations by using knowledge and familiarity as coping mechanisms.