Children often visit the doctor for routine check-ups, immunizations, and even emergencies. However, some medical settings can be scary and intimidating for young children. Parents may feel anxious and overwhelmed as well.
Young patients are more stressed out due to unfamiliar surroundings, lack of understanding of what is happening, and fear of needles/injections. However, you can provide a comfortable environment for your young patients with these helpful tips:
1. Themed Murals
One great way to transform a clinic is by painting the walls with themed murals. Cute animal murals, for example, can make a room feel more light and cheerful. Also, a mural featuring a tropical forest or underwater setting can create an immersive environment where kids feel like they are visiting their favorite place instead of a doctor’s office.
You can also incorporate child-friendly images, such as photos of kids having fun at the park or playing with pets. Keep in mind that bright colors can make a room more fun for children while adding an interesting detail that parents will enjoy.
2. Touchable Items
Most children like to explore their surroundings and touch everything, so consider incorporating touchable items into your office. You can place toy bins or baskets near seating areas to encourage kids to pick up an item and play with it while waiting for their appointment. Also, a sensory table where little ones can check out different textures and shapes is a great idea.
Moreover, plush toys are great examples because they are soft enough for kids of all ages to play with comfortably. Softer items are essential if you want younger children who may not control themselves in a doctor’s office setting yet.
3. Attractive Decorations
To make your clinic more attractive, you can use cartoon characters, vivid wall colors, and child-friendly furniture. You can also include child-sized seats so they can be at the correct height when they’re getting their vitals checked.
Safety should be your priority when considering what type of furniture to add. Avoid protruding pieces, which can injure a child, and the items should be sturdy so they cannot fall over on them. A good example is a beach themed decor pediatric office that features a giant whale in the middle of the room.
4. Wooden-Themed Furniture
Aside from soft and touchable decorations, you can also have custom stools and benches. You don’t need to buy ready-made furniture if you feel that they look too old for modern kids. Instead, you can turn it into something they will love by painting them yellow or with polka dots. Moreover, you can turn the tables into something more fun, personalizing it with colorful stickers of cute characters. You can also place some stuffed toys on top of them for decoration.
5. Gaming Areas
Gaming office designs are an excellent way to keep children calm during their visits. They can occupy their time with a video game or toy to keep them entertained during the wait. You may also want to consider putting TVs above every station so children and parents can watch cartoons while you take care of other tasks.
Make sure to include animals or stuffed toys that children can play with to reduce their anxiety. Add age-appropriate materials so they aren’t overwhelmed or bored.
Keep In Mind
Whatever style, design, color, or theme you want for your clinic, your goal is to create a happy and caring environment for children.
Whatever style, design, color, or theme you want for your clinic, your goal is to create a happy and caring environment for children. It is not only about what they find inside. It’s also about how you welcome them and make them feel loved from the start.
On top of these, choose designers who have experience designing a space like yours. This way, you can ensure that the result is exactly what you envisioned when starting on this project.