Going to a dental office can seem a little scary for kids, even if you have a playful theme in place. So what else can pediatric dentists do to keep young minds from pondering scrapers and drills? There is the tried and true option of using a television. You can ‘animate the wait’ by using TV as a positive distraction for kids.
Although television is going through quite a shift today (from cable to on-demand streaming services), it has stayed relatively the same when it comes to children’s programming.
Be it the colors, characters, or the crazy adventures, animated television shows are still a good way to occupy a young patient’s time and mind when they don’t feel like interacting with apps on a touchscreen or playing on a slide.
Data analysis shows that the introduction of distraction conditions was associated with more calm behavior and less fine and gross movement, suggesting significant calming effects associated with the distraction conditions. Data also suggest that positive distraction conditions are significant attention grabbers and could be an important contributor to improving the waiting experience for children in hospitals by improving environmental attractiveness.
– From The Influence of Positive Distractions on Children in Two Clinic Waiting Areas
What Are the Best Options for Children’s Programming in a Waiting Room Setting?
If there is a television being used in a pediatric dental office waiting area it should definitely feature some fun, light-hearted, and potentially educational animated programming. Don’t just turn on the local news because that’s not going to keep kids happy. Some good television networks to look into for this are: Boomerang, Cartoon Network, Disney Junior, Disney XD, Universal Kids, and Nick Jr.
These channels have a good variety of animated programming that could keep young patients from getting too worked up about seeing the dentist, especially if visiting for the first time.
If you want to get more specific about what’s being watched, it’s as easy as creating a custom playlist by purchasing individual episodes through online stores like iTunes, Google Play, or Amazon Prime. This route might take more time to set up initially, but it will save money down the road.
These types of shows don’t only have to be restricted to the waiting areas either; they can be used on mounted monitors or tablets for kids to watch while in the dental chair to further keep their mind off of things.
Don’t Be Afraid to Mix in Some Dental Education in Your Waiting Room Entertainment
YouTube presents a diverse range of educational videos specifically tailored for young dental patients. These videos cover essential oral hygiene practices, making learning about dental care engaging and accessible for children. From animated characters demonstrating proper brushing and flossing techniques to informative videos on the importance of regular dental check-ups, YouTube serves as a valuable educational tool for both parents and dental professionals. Create a Youtube playlist and stream your picks to your waiting room TV for a valuable educational experience.
Check out a couple below to see what’s available.
Curating a playlist on platforms like YouTube offers a powerful tool for dental professionals to maintain control over the educational content presented to their young patients. By thoughtfully selecting and organizing videos, dental practitioners can ensure that the material aligns with their educational objectives, emphasizing key concepts in oral health in an engaging and entertaining manner.
Create a Children’s Area for Watching Movies with a Theater
IDS designs themed movie theater rooms to suit the vivid imaginations of young audiences. From fantastical realms to outer space adventures, these immersive designs transport children to worlds where their favorite movie characters come to life.
Separating the theater into its own room serves two purposes: it keeps noise from disturbing the kids’ experience, and it allows parents to have their own TV in a separate area for added comfort. It’s a practical design that ensures an immersive and undisturbed space for children while offering parents the flexibility to enjoy their own entertainment nearby.
In harmonizing imaginative design and thoughtful functionality, IDS not only elevates the viewing experience for children but also transforms these corners into havens that prioritize both entertainment and the practical needs of families.
What’s your favorite cartoon or kids show? Share it with us and with your patients!
IDS theming is not an expense; it is an investment in your business.
Invest in Your Patients
Valuing your patients and their families sets them up for a lifetime of positive health outcomes. And the environment you create can help you achieve a better patient experience.
- Reduce patient anxiety and enhance their relaxation
- Prime patients and families for their appointments
- Create positive dental care experiences
Invest in Your Business
Maintain your edge in the crowded dental service space. Attention to detail can transform your environment and overall patient satisfaction.
- Create “buzz” in the community you serve
- Accelerate patient referrals
- Generate positive online reviews
For an in-depth report on designing your office to alleviate anxiety in patients, download the free white paper now.
Learn more ways you can create a better patient experience with: A Practical Guide to Creating an Exceptional Patient Experience
Contact Imagination Design Studios (IDS) to get started transforming your office from a mundane to magical patient experience.