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Please Explain Tonsillectomy & Adenoidectomy to Me: A Complete Guide to Preparing Your Child for Surgery
The new 3rd Edition of this bestselling book helps parents understand and organize the necessary medical and emotional components that accompany their child's surgery. In an easy to follow timeline for events prior to and following a tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy, the authors provide reassuring and accurate guidance that eases the process for the patient and family. As caregivers, you will:
Get the facts about tonsils and adenoids in simple terms.
Reduce your own anxiety about surgery and recovery.
Learn how to best support your child through the medical and emotional events surrounding the procedure.
Have scripts available to guide your conversations with all of your children.
Discover the sequence of events leading up to surgery and how to prepare for them.
Find out what you need to have at home while your child recuperates.
Understand and respond to any unforeseen complications.
Become confident that you have maximized your child's comfort and adjustment during the weeks surrounding surgery.
A handy and valuable guide for parents who face the ultimate decision to have their child undergo a surgery, this book unravels the fear, answers the questions and makes it understandable and reassuring. It is much needed in the field and its joyful illustrations make it easy to follow and comprehend.
Get the facts about tonsils and adenoids in simple terms.
Reduce your own anxiety about surgery and recovery.
Learn how to best support your child through the medical and emotional events surrounding the procedure.
Have scripts available to guide your conversations with all of your children.
Discover the sequence of events leading up to surgery and how to prepare for them.
Find out what you need to have at home while your child recuperates.
Understand and respond to any unforeseen complications.
Become confident that you have maximized your child's comfort and adjustment during the weeks surrounding surgery.
A handy and valuable guide for parents who face the ultimate decision to have their child undergo a surgery, this book unravels the fear, answers the questions and makes it understandable and reassuring. It is much needed in the field and its joyful illustrations make it easy to follow and comprehend.
- GenresNonfiction
42 pages, Hardcover
First published November 12, 2008
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
January 31, 2019
I really enjoyed Zelinger's previous "Please Explain" books and found this one to be on par with the others. It was jammed pack with information for parents and from start to finish the book walks you through the procedure with ease. She breaks the process of explaining to your child into four phases - Introducing the topic to your child (1 -2 months before surgery), Tacking the subject - which covers what to tell them 3/4 weeks before and 2/3 weeks before surgery, Getting ready for surgery and the day of the surgery.
There is also a preparation list and possible complications that can arise from the surgery towards the ends. This is a much more parental book as opposed to the other, with lots of medical terminology, but there are child friendly explanations throughout to help guide you. I would suggest you read through it first, then tackle the subject with your child.
Tonsillectomy and Adenoidectomy aren't as common here in the UK as they used to be, but this will definitely be a handy book for me to have in case the need ever arises with any of my kids.
There is also a preparation list and possible complications that can arise from the surgery towards the ends. This is a much more parental book as opposed to the other, with lots of medical terminology, but there are child friendly explanations throughout to help guide you. I would suggest you read through it first, then tackle the subject with your child.
Tonsillectomy and Adenoidectomy aren't as common here in the UK as they used to be, but this will definitely be a handy book for me to have in case the need ever arises with any of my kids.
February 18, 2019
This book is so cleverly written to not only calm parent and patient about the named operation procedures, I believe it can be applied to a number of hospital or difficult procedures. It takes you through the explanation of the operations for the above conditions, what to expect, how to carefully plan and prepare, how to explain what is going to happen, when it is going to and why it is necessary.
The book includes excellent graphics and simple text explanations to ease any parent or child who is about to undergo that operation and some great ideas to make your child feel special. Taking each step of the procedure one at a time gently preparing and reassuring your child all through the process building up their confidence and alleviating their fears as they rise, especially around the surgery and recovery.
Written by experts in their field, using their knowledge, the book is in simple format which makes total sense to a parent, with the addition of the graphic illustrations and large text is very visible it makes it appealing for the child to share with the parent.
I would highly recommend this book to any parent whose child is going to experience a hospital procedure as it will help keep you calm as you see your child relaxing about the procedure as they know exactly what is going to happen and when.
The book includes excellent graphics and simple text explanations to ease any parent or child who is about to undergo that operation and some great ideas to make your child feel special. Taking each step of the procedure one at a time gently preparing and reassuring your child all through the process building up their confidence and alleviating their fears as they rise, especially around the surgery and recovery.
Written by experts in their field, using their knowledge, the book is in simple format which makes total sense to a parent, with the addition of the graphic illustrations and large text is very visible it makes it appealing for the child to share with the parent.
I would highly recommend this book to any parent whose child is going to experience a hospital procedure as it will help keep you calm as you see your child relaxing about the procedure as they know exactly what is going to happen and when.
February 13, 2019
This book is a guide for parents and is jam packed with AMAZING information that helps the parent not only explain what will happen to the child, but helps the parent on this journey as well.
February 13, 2019
Very cute little book that has a TON of information in it. Perfect for kids and parents because it gives the parents some very good advice on what to do, how to handle the situation, how to allay their fears and how to help them after the surgery. I had a tonsillectomy when I was about 11 years old, I struggled for years with tonsillitis before having the surgery and I don't remember much about it except that I was happy I got to eat ice cream, pudding and jello all day long :) But naturally, kids are terrified of going into a surgery and even more terrified when they come out and are in pain. This book gives every explanation for parents about reasons for needing a tonsillectomy such as of course tonsillitis, but also because there may be obstructed airways or snoring - things that may NOT require surgery to fix. So it's not just a book to help you talk to your kids, it's also a great book to keep around for the extra information. It speaks about ENT doctors, Otolaryngologists and much more. I also love that it gives you the time frame in which you have to talk to your child about the surgery. Starting with about 1 month before surgery all the way up to going into the doctor for the surgery. It even gives parents dialogue to use to help their child better understand what the tonsils are and what will happen. We all know that our children would be scared of something like this. My daughter is now 12 and she has luckily NOT had these problems yet like I did. My younger brother never had them either, just me. I also however was the one who got the asthma and allergies, so that is also a factor in needing your tonsils removed. Perhaps the best part of the book is the "Ultimate Preparation List" - which gives parents a full list of everything they will need for this experience - starting with clearance letters, medical insurance info and pre-approval, things that will be needed before and after the surgery. One thing I love about this is that they suggest getting the game "Operation", which is one that I played so often as a child but have never gotten one for my daughter. Of course if you were one kid who played Operation, you might remember that you get to take out all of the body parts and it helps teach children how to identify parts of the body as well :) Overall this is a great book for parents, I would HIGHLY recommend picking up a copy and reading it - and I plan on getting the other books as well because I think the anxiety and terrorism books would be priceless for me!
***I received a free book to read***
***I received a free book to read***
April 23, 2019
I have read a previous book by this same author (Please Explain ‘Terrorism’ to Me) and enjoy how these books give easy to use ways to explain difficult topics to kids.
The books look like they are children picture books and while there are some pictures; the books are definitely geared towards parents and helping parents find ways to explain topics – such as going through Tonsillectomy and Adenoidectomy. As a parent who hasn’t gone through it myself; I wouldn’t have the slightest idea how to start if my children needed to go through it. Fortunately for me, Please Explain Tonsillectomy and Adenoidectomy to Me provides easy to understand terminology and vocabulary so that not only can I understand it, but I could better explain to my children (or a child).
The author does an amazing job sharing their knowledge so that we can understand and process the information so that we can share with children. I have found these “Please Explain” books to be a great help in assisting with those tricky topics that children tend to inquire about!
The books look like they are children picture books and while there are some pictures; the books are definitely geared towards parents and helping parents find ways to explain topics – such as going through Tonsillectomy and Adenoidectomy. As a parent who hasn’t gone through it myself; I wouldn’t have the slightest idea how to start if my children needed to go through it. Fortunately for me, Please Explain Tonsillectomy and Adenoidectomy to Me provides easy to understand terminology and vocabulary so that not only can I understand it, but I could better explain to my children (or a child).
The author does an amazing job sharing their knowledge so that we can understand and process the information so that we can share with children. I have found these “Please Explain” books to be a great help in assisting with those tricky topics that children tend to inquire about!
February 12, 2019
As a child, I remember hearing my parents and doctor talking about the potential for tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy surgery. They used terms that I didn't understand at age 10. It would have been wonderful to have this book to explain the entire process. The cover makes the book more inviting than traditional pamphlets or printed resources that your physician often provides. It's very accurate and full of information that bring the surgery to an understandable level by a child (as well as a parent!). The preparation list is an amazing asset to help kids learn about the pre-surgery process. A list of complications is also included without the intention of scaring a patient but rather, to prepare them of the reality of surgery. This is a great resource for parents, as well as teachers, to help younger children understand the process, outcome, and reasoning behind the surgery.
I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own.
I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own.
February 4, 2019
If your child is being booked for surgery to have their tonsils or adenoids removed, you will get a lot of great information from this book, Please Explain Tonsillectomy and Adenoidectomy to Me by Laurie Zelinger and Perry Zelinger. It will help you with explaining the procedure to your child and will help you also with many questions you will have. This book has lots of great advice for getting ready for surgery, what to pack for at the hospital. So much great information about what to expect at the hospital before, during and after surgery and when you take your child home. I recommend parents to get and read this book if your child is in need of having their tonsils and/or adenoids surgically removed.
I received this book through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own.
I received this book through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own.
January 30, 2019
I really enjoyed exploring this book. As a teacher, sometimes students find out they are having surgery and are scared. This book is a great resource to share with parents and to use when talking to a student who is about to undergo surgery.
I found it really interesting how the authors make the child a part of the conversation and remind parents not to have the initial conversation in front of their child. So many parents give into those fears and discuss it on the car ride home, scaring a child. A gentle reminder to have the conversation behind closed doors and to show the child a united front are key to reassuring a child.
From start to finish this book walks families through the procedure and I cannot wait to read more from these authors.
I found it really interesting how the authors make the child a part of the conversation and remind parents not to have the initial conversation in front of their child. So many parents give into those fears and discuss it on the car ride home, scaring a child. A gentle reminder to have the conversation behind closed doors and to show the child a united front are key to reassuring a child.
From start to finish this book walks families through the procedure and I cannot wait to read more from these authors.
February 4, 2019
First, let me say despite the cover this is *not* a picture book, so if that is what you're looking for, you'll be disappointed.
I was very impressed by the book itself. It's perfect for caregivers of children about to undergo a tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy. Not only are the basics of the procedure covered, but a basic timeline of when to talk to your child about things is included. There is wording that is easier for the child to understand suggested, and the back of the book includes a checklist and form of important info. Perfect not just for talking to your child but preparing yourself.
I was very impressed by the book itself. It's perfect for caregivers of children about to undergo a tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy. Not only are the basics of the procedure covered, but a basic timeline of when to talk to your child about things is included. There is wording that is easier for the child to understand suggested, and the back of the book includes a checklist and form of important info. Perfect not just for talking to your child but preparing yourself.
February 6, 2019
This book gives parents a great deal of medical information, as well as ideas on how to explain the subject to young children. It is not a book for the children themselves, although it has wonderful illustrations to share with the child--it even offers some direct quotes to use to begin conversations about different parts of the procedure. My favorite resource is the list of suggested items to have on hand at home after the surgery to make recovery easier on everyone. There is also a list of children's books about the subject.
May 12, 2013
This is a very strong supplement to an ENT and pediatrician for a parent trying to prepare their child, their living space, other kids and themselves for an upcoming tonsillectomy & adenoidectomy. There are lists of ideas for things that can help assist comfort and healing once the child is home, and getting organized is helping all of us feel in control and prepared for what's to come. We are grateful for having found this book!
May 31, 2021
This book is for parents and caregivers with all the information needed to make informed surgical opinions and plans for surgery. Details like use a red washcloth to wipe away and possible blood so the child is not scared and other ideas will help parents who have not experienced recovery. The timeline is in both full detail and and abbreviated version, which is nice. Everything you haven’t thought of is in this book!
July 16, 2010
This is an excellent guide for parents whose child will (or might) undergo tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy. The author, a school psychologist, play therapist, and parent of four who has had one of her own sons experience this procedure, certainly knows what she is talking about.
This book is well organized and prepares a family to cope with these medical procedures. It comes with a useful preparation list, a bibliography for additional reading, and a caregiver’s section that can be filled out with important medical info and kept handy. Dr. Laurie Zelinger gives practical advice every step of the way, showing parents what to expect from the day they are told their child will need the operation to post-surgery recovery.
For example, she states that when parents first get the news that their child needs surgery, it is best “not to discuss the topic on the ride home. Children do not need to hear both sides of a situation, or any concerns that you may have.” How true! And how wise. This will avoid building fear in the child from the onset. I also loved the suggestion of providing the recovering child with a bell to summon the parent since they won’t be able to call out. It seems the author thought of everything.
Throughout the advice found in the pages of this book, I saw respect for the child as a person. Although this book is not meant to be read to a child (I initially thought it was when I requested it for review because it was categorized under books for children of PreK age), the parent can still show the illustrations and summarize the explanations especially prepared for telling their children why they need to have their tonsils or adenoids removed.
This book is reassuring, comforting and helps to alleviate any fears regarding these procedures. I would highly recommend it to any parent who wants to be prepared to help their child face a difficult situation smoothly and confidently.
This book is well organized and prepares a family to cope with these medical procedures. It comes with a useful preparation list, a bibliography for additional reading, and a caregiver’s section that can be filled out with important medical info and kept handy. Dr. Laurie Zelinger gives practical advice every step of the way, showing parents what to expect from the day they are told their child will need the operation to post-surgery recovery.
For example, she states that when parents first get the news that their child needs surgery, it is best “not to discuss the topic on the ride home. Children do not need to hear both sides of a situation, or any concerns that you may have.” How true! And how wise. This will avoid building fear in the child from the onset. I also loved the suggestion of providing the recovering child with a bell to summon the parent since they won’t be able to call out. It seems the author thought of everything.
Throughout the advice found in the pages of this book, I saw respect for the child as a person. Although this book is not meant to be read to a child (I initially thought it was when I requested it for review because it was categorized under books for children of PreK age), the parent can still show the illustrations and summarize the explanations especially prepared for telling their children why they need to have their tonsils or adenoids removed.
This book is reassuring, comforting and helps to alleviate any fears regarding these procedures. I would highly recommend it to any parent who wants to be prepared to help their child face a difficult situation smoothly and confidently.
February 5, 2019
Having never had my tonsils or adenoids removed --just the thought of it frightens me-even as an adult! I can just imagine how terrified a young child would be. This book definitely gives great suggestions, in my opinion, how to help alleviate at least some of those fears-and not only for the child, but for the parents and siblings as well.
It gives a step by step plan on how to broach the subject gently. Of course not everyone will have the time to slowly go through all the suggestions--but as many as you can do--do!! The illustrations are easy to view and won't scare a child. The suggestion to play Operation and to read books on the subject to ease the child into somewhat acceptance makes sense.
If you or someone you know has a child that will need their tonsils and/or adenoids removed--I suggest that you read this!
It gives a step by step plan on how to broach the subject gently. Of course not everyone will have the time to slowly go through all the suggestions--but as many as you can do--do!! The illustrations are easy to view and won't scare a child. The suggestion to play Operation and to read books on the subject to ease the child into somewhat acceptance makes sense.
If you or someone you know has a child that will need their tonsils and/or adenoids removed--I suggest that you read this!
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews