Follow these five simple tips for making your exams child-friendly, comfortable and fun!

• Use varying volumes of your voice to keep the patient interested and entertained.  When you're examining their eyes, ears and throat, your exambuddies will softly say things like, "Just checking out your ears to see if there are any gummy bears in there.  I don't want to scare them so I'm talking very, very softly."



• Sing silly songs when you're not examining the patient.  This is not only entertaining, but it helps them understand everything you do and why.  Monte has the best voice out of the bunch (albeit a bit on the squeaky side)! 



• If you're faced with a shy patient, allow Pickles to introduce you to the patient. She uses a great, non-threatening approach and is an expert at bringing out the best in each child.  She's friendly, warm and uses her magnifying glass to find those star qualities in everyone she meets.


• Have fun puzzles or "find all the hidden pictures" games printed out in each of your exam rooms.  The child can complete the puzzle or game while they are waiting for you.  Einstein (just like his name) is the expert at helping them figure out those difficult answers!



• Jokes are a great way to break the ice with new or timid patients.  Download a list of jokes and tell a new one each week.  Monte thinks every joke is hilarious - no matter how bad.  He'll back you up on every single joke and fill your exam room with laughter.