Seven ways: Cross the generation gap

Walk through your practice’s front door, get down on your knees and have a look around. Is there anything that you can see that would be welcoming to a young child entering for the first time? A child’s eye view of a reception desk with someone looming behind it can be quite scary. If you really want children to feel at home have (suitably disinfected) children’s activities clearly visible and accessible and invite them, either directly or via their accompanying adult to investigate that area as soon as possible. When talking to the child try and get down to eye level with them, maintain plenty of personal space and try and avoid sudden movements. Building trust is critical.