Mangaluru: KMC Hospital, BR Ambedkar Circle, organised a hospital familiarisation programme for preschool children Friday as part of its Children’s Day celebrations.Titled ‘Shaping the future heroes’, the programme included ‘Healthy snack with doctor – A chat session between kids and doctors’, a guided hospital walkthrough and interactive sessions to help children understand hospital care and overcome their fear of doctors.Sessions covered childhood injuries, including falls, insect bites and minor accidents. Doctors encouraged children to tell parents or caregivers about pain or injuries and stressed timely medical attention. Discussions also covered handwashing to prevent infections, balanced meals, fruits and vegetables, and hydration.Dr Soundharya, consultant paediatrician, said, “Children are often apprehensive about hospitals because they associate them with illness, injections or procedures. A familiarisation visit in a friendly setting can help change this perception and make them more comfortable around doctors and healthcare professionals.”Dr Swathi Rao, paediatric intensivist, said, “Falls, insect bites and minor accidents are common during childhood. Children may not always understand the seriousness of an injury, so it is important to teach them to recognise when something is wrong and tell an adult. Parents should listen without dismissing their concerns.”Aruna Malliya, senior dietitian, said, “Children are more likely to accept a variety of foods when they are introduced to them early. Offering different fruits and vegetables, serving balanced meals and making water the preferred drink can help establish healthy eating habits.”Dr Jeedu Radhakrishnan, cluster head, emergency medicine, said, “In an emergency, children may feel confused or frightened. They should know how to approach a trusted adult, explain what has happened and follow instructions. These simple steps can help adults respond quickly when a child needs assistance.”
