327. Q&A: What’s the best way to explain and prepare my toddler for my upcoming surgery without scaring them?

Update: 2025-07-24

Description

Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode, Dr. Emily Upshur and I talk about...

How to prepare a toddler for a parent’s surgery or temporary physical limitations in a way that is honest, concrete, and not scary.
Creative, developmentally appropriate ways to help your child understand and process upcoming changes to routines—like playtime, bedtime, or physical closeness.
The power of play, role-playing with toys, and using analogies to help kids grasp abstract concepts.
What to expect behaviorally from your child during your recovery and strategies for responding to potential regressions or increased irritability.
How to reframe this period as a chance to foster independence and pride in your child while still maintaining connection.
The surprising importance of shifting focus to what you still can do with your child, and how to create new, meaningful rituals during a difficult time.
Why prioritizing your own healing—both physically and emotionally—is one of the most supportive things you can do for your child.

ADDITIONAL PODCAST EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE:

🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about how to understand toddlerhood with the authors of the Terrific Toddlers series

🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about how to tell your toddler you're pregnant

🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about telling your toddler about a miscarriage

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU:

Go to https://drsarahbren.com/question to send us a question or a topic you want to hear us answer on Securely Attached - Beyond the Sessions!

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