• Share with your caregivers what methods have worked for pain in the past.
• Let your caregiver know as soon as pain occurs. The best time to manage pain is when it first begins. Don’t wait for the pain to get worse before asking for pain medication.
• Let your caregiver know how pain medications are working. If one method does not work, there are usually other medications or methods to try.
• Do not be afraid of giving your child strong pain medications or becoming "addicted" to them. "Narcotics" or opioids are safe if used under a doctor’s direction for pain. Strong pain requires strong medicine. Studies show that drug addiction is rare when medications are used for the purpose of pain management.
• Give children simple and accurate information about what is going to happen and repeat it as often as needed.
• Don’t lie to children about painful procedures or use needles as a threat - this can teach children to distrust and to be fearful.
• Encourage your child to ask questions and express their feelings. It is okay for children to show that they are afraid. Children should be praised for doing their best. Let your child know that you understand how he or she feels. It is okay to give a child a small treat for cooperating with a procedure (check with nurse about diet issues).
• Include toys and play - Dolls, puppets or drawings can be used to explain procedures, help children express feelings, or can be used as a form of distraction so that a child can relax and forget their worries.
• Use distraction - Examples include asking them to take deep breaths in and out, blowing bubbles, video games, breathing exercises, television, music, reading and being read to.
• Use touch - such as holding, rocking, cuddling and massaging the child.
• Ask your child what would help.
• Ask your nurse about the use of heat or cold to an area of pain.

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