Five quiet things for the waiting room

Every visit starts with a bit of waiting, whether it's five minutes or twenty, and a wriggly toddler or a bored ten year old can make that stretch feel much longer for everyone. Over the years I've picked up a few small things, some from my own two, that help keep the wait calm until we call your name.

A small comfort item from home. A soft toy or a blanket corner, whatever your little one already reaches for at bedtime works just as well here.

A short picture book, or a few crayons and paper. Small and light enough to just live in your bag.

A fidget toy, for the ones who settle better with busy hands.

Headphones and a favourite show or song, so the rest of the waiting room doesn't have to share it too.

One I'll admit I'm a little biased about: there's a free tapping and rhythm game called MetroGnome ↗ that I think could genuinely help here. It's quiet with headphones in and simple enough for small hands to pick up on their own, which is exactly what a waiting room calls for. Full disclosure, it was made by a family member, so take the recommendation with that in mind, but I wouldn't mention it if I didn't think it was worth trying.

Bring whatever helps your child feel most like themselves. Our rooms are painted with playful bunnies for exactly this reason, and our team is always happy to help however they can while you wait. For everything else to expect on the day, have a look at our FAQ page.

Dr Yolandé Lambrechts
DCH, MBChB, FCPaed(SA), Paediatrician, Groenkloof, Pretoria