Children and Surgery
"You're The Star "

"You're the Star" Program
Helping Your Child  Prepare for Surgery

Southlake Regional Health Centre has developed the "You're the Star" program to help children, ages four to twelve, and their parents become acquainted with the hospital prior to surgery. Each child participates in a dress rehearsal where they are made the star and headliner of their own operation.

The program is designed to provide psychological preparation and support to reduce the stress associated with hospitalization and surgery for children.  In keeping with our family-centred care philosophy, it involves both children and their parents.

It also provides an opportunity for parents and children to identify and express feelings through puppet play or a slide show, hands-on exploration of commonly used medical equipment, and a tour of the operating and recovery rooms.  Hospital clinical staff are in attendance to meet the children, answer questions and address fears associated with surgery.

It is "the unknown" that frightens children and affects their trust in adults; they need explanations in simple terms they can understand. The program teaches children what they need to know about coming to the hospital for an operation. Studies have shown that children who are prepared in advance are better able to deal with hospitalization and surgery than children who don't know what to expect.  Their parents also experience less stress.

How to register for the "You're the Star" Program

It is recommended that your child attend the program one week prior to the date of surgery.  The program is held once weekly, on a Wednesday from 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. A volunteer will contact you 1 - 2 weeks prior to your child's surgery to register for this program.

For further information please leave a message at (905) 895-4521, extension 2665 and your call will be returned.