Kids & Blood Pressure: How to Make the Blood Pressure Test Easier on Kids! by Elizabeth Pagel-Hogan

When kids turn 5, measuring their blood pressure becomes a regular part of their well-child visit. While adults don't think twice about this non-invasive procedure, my 5-year-old had a panic attack because he focused on the phrase "TAKE your blood." He has a fear of blood. If I had thought about it from his point of view, I could've minimized his fear. 

• At checkups, I now tell my kids the nurse is going to "measure" their muscles. 
• I also ask the nurse to measure my blood pressure first. 

My son is now 7 and handles it fine, but I'm prepared for the next two when they turn 5!

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