Books That Help Children in the Hospital

Preschool

• In "Going to the Hospital," legendary children's television host Fred Rogers relates what happens when kids are admitted to the hospital. The text is illustrated with color photographs of young patients going through this process. Common procedures, such as getting checked in, having blood drawn, being examined and talking to the medical team, are covered. "Hospital," illustrated by Jess Stockham, is part of the "First Time" series for preschoolers. This book helps answer a preschooler's concerns about going to the hospital, including length of stay and the medical team. Parents can use the simple text and illustrations to encourage discussions about their child's worries and questions.

Early Elementary

• "Franklin Goes to the Hospital," by Paulette Bourgeois, continues the series about a young turtle. In this book, Franklin has a cracked shell and must go to the hospital for healing. Through Franklin's experience, the author presents young children's concerns about a hospital stay, including leaving home, noticing strange smells, maintaining contact with parents and being exposed to unfamiliar treatments. In "Goodbye, Tonsils!," authors Craig and Juliana Hatkoff tell the story of Juliana, whose recurring sore throat leads to a tonsillectomy. Her hospitalization is covered, step by step, from a pre-operation party to her recuperation at home. Virginia Dooley's "Tubes in My Ears: My Trip to the Hospital" talks about a child as he undergoes another common childhood operation. This multicultural book covers Luke's same-day surgery, from preliminary tests to vomiting after the operation.

Middle Elementary

• "Hospital (That's Gross! a Look at Science)," by Julie Murray, is part of a series of explicit and engaging science books for kids. The author helps demystify common medical treatments, such as getting stitches and shots. The book is full of graphics and color photos. Marianne Johnston's "Let's Talk About Going to the Hospital" takes a realistic look at the hospital experience, including IVs, anesthesia and surgery. The author acknowledges that some tests and procedures, such as shots, are painful even if helpful.

Later Elementary

• "Hospital: Explore the Building Room by Room," by John Malam, provides background information for kids who are anticipating a hospital stay. The author discusses all parts of the building, including the operating room, administration offices and laundry services. The roles of the staff and the equipment they use are also covered. In "The Hospital Book," popular children's author James Howe describes medical equipment, personnel and facilities. He also realistically and sensitively talks to kids about the feelings they might experience before, during and after their stay.