What to Expect When Your Child Needs Hospital Care — A Guide for Parents

When your child needs to go to hospital — whether for something planned or completely unexpected — it can be one of the most stressful experiences of your life. Parents often feel overwhelmed by the clinical environment, the unfamiliar routines, the medical terms, and the emotional rollercoaster of fear, hope and uncertainty. This guide is here to help you understand what to expect, how to prepare, and crucially, the various ways The Archie Foundation is here to support you and your family every step of the way. 

1. Before You Arrive: Preparing for Hospital Care

Planned Admissions 

In cases where treatment is scheduled, such as surgery or specialist appointments, your hospital team should give you clear information about what will happen, when to arrive, and what you need to bring. It’s normal to feel nervous — both you and your child are entering an unfamiliar world. 

Try to: 

• Pack essentials like comfort items, clothes, snacks, chargers, and things to keep your child entertained. 

• Write down any questions you have about the procedure or care plan. 

• Talk with your child (age-appropriately) about what to expect so they feel included and reassured. 

Emergency Admissions 

When a child needs urgent care, there’s no time to prepare. You might be whisked straight to hospital by ambulance or arrive via A&E yourself. In these moments, practical concerns — travel costs, accommodation, the right clothes or supplies — can quickly add to your stress. The Archie Foundation offers emergency support grants to help families cover travel expenses, buy essential items or sort out sudden costs so you can focus on your child. 

2. The First Moments at Hospital

Arriving at a hospital can be overwhelming. There are machines, staff in uniforms, unfamiliar noises and tons of information being shared with you. Here’s what usually happens: 

• Triage and Assessment: Medical and nursing staff will assess your child’s condition, check vital signs, and decide where they need to be seen first. 

• Medical History Review: The medical and nursing staff will ask questions about your child’s medical background, allergies, medications and symptoms. 

• Comfort and Waiting Areas: Most children’s hospitals, or Children’s Service Provisions, have dedicated family areas — and some even have child-friendly bright spaces designed to put children at ease through engaging artwork and play areas.  

Being in hospital can be both physically and emotionally tiring. Finding a welcoming space — even for a short rest — can help both you and your child settle. 

3. Staying Close: WhatTheArchie Foundation Does to Support Families 

One of the biggest stressors for parents is being away from home, especially when your child needs ongoing care. The Archie Foundation understands this deeply — and have created services to help families stay close and supported. 

Family Accommodation 

At Royal Aberdeen Children’s Hospital, The Archie Foundation runs the Archie Family Centre, which provides free overnight rooms for parents whose children are receiving treatment. These rooms are ensuite, have pull-out beds for siblings, and give families a place to rest, cook meals, and feel as close to normal life as possible amidst hospital stays.  

Other services are provided across the Archie Foundation footprint, with pull out beds and bedside recliners. 

For many parents, having overnight accommodation means more than just a bed. It gives: 

• Emotional relief from the strain of long days and nights 

• Practical space for siblings to stay close 

• A place to recharge before returning to the ward 

During long hospital stays, that comfort makes a profound difference — allowing parents to be present with their children every step of the way. 

4. The Hospital Environment and Child-Friendly Spaces

Hospitals can feel intimidating to young children. The Archie Foundation work closely with our NHS partners to help transform clinical settings into more welcoming places. 

Bright and Supportive Design 

In locations across Grampian, Tayside and the Highlands, Archie has funded whimsical murals — from giraffes and elephants at the entrance to colourful corridors — to images from all across the North of Scotland, to help distract children from fear and pain. These intentional design elements make the space feel recognisable, engaging and less clinical. 

Play Areas and Zones 

Play is not a luxury for children — it’s a critical part of coping. Archie-funded play zones, sensory equipment and dedicated play leaders help children relax and unwind during their visit. 

Play can: 

• Reduce anxiety before procedures 

• Provide distraction from pain 

• Help children stay active, curious and connected to normal childhood activities 

5. Understanding Medical Staff and Roles

Hospitals are busy places, and many professionals will be involved in your child’s care. Here’s a quick overview of who you might meet: 

• Consultants and Doctors: Lead clinical decisions and explain treatment plans. 

• Nurses: Provide day-to-day care, monitor vitals, administer medicines and answer questions. 

• Play Specialists & Nursery Nurses: Help children cope with procedures through play and distraction. 

• Support Workers: Including those funded by charities like The Archie Foundation, offering emotional support and guidance. 

Don’t be afraid to ask staff to explain medical terms or next steps — understanding what’s happening helps reduce fear. 

6. Emotional Support for Families

The emotional journey of hospital care can be intense. It’s normal to feel: 

• Anxiety about your child’s health 

• Guilt for not knowing what to expect 

• Stress over logistics, travel and finances 

Bereavement and Emotional Support Services 

For families facing the deepest challenges, including loss, The Archie Foundation operates a Child Bereavement Service with trained professionals and support tailored to individual needs. This service offers: 

• Advice and guidance shared directly with parents, carers or professionals as part of the initial referral process, to help them support a bereaved children  

• Specialist resources carefully chosen for each child and family, appropriate for their age and the nature of their loss  

• One to one, in-person support to help bereaved children navigate grief and loss 

• Activity days to connect children who have suffered bereavements, helping to reduce feelings of isolation 

Children and families are supported to understand and manage their emotions in ways suited to their age and experience. 

7. Practical Tips for Parents During Hospital Stays

Here are some practical things you can do to make your time in hospital a little easier: 

• Stay Organised: Keep important documents, medication information and questions in one folder — it makes communication easier. 

• Ask for Help: Never feel embarrassed to ask hospital staff or support volunteers for clarification or assistance. 

• Make the Hospital Feel Familiar: Bring comfort items like blankets, books, favourite toys, or playlist to help your child feel grounded. 

• Connect with Other Families: Shared experiences can offer comfort and reduce isolation — whether in waiting rooms or family accommodations. 

• Take Care of Yourself Too: Eat, rest and seek breaks when you can — you’ll be a better support for your child if you take care of your own wellbeing. 

8. Transitioning Home and Beyond

When it’s time to go home, hospitals usually offer a discharge plan, explaining: 

• Follow-up appointments 

• Medication instructions 

• Signs to watch for 

• Support contacts 

Keeping this information organised helps ensure a smooth transition back to everyday life. 

9. The Power of Support: How Archie Makes a Difference

The Archie Foundation know that care and support extends way beyond clinical treatment. From practical emergency support to warm family accommodation, emotional support services and child-friendly environments, Archie helps families navigate hospital experiences with dignity and comfort. In 2024 alone, Archie raised over £2 million to support families and provided thousands of nights of accommodation so parents could stay with their children. 

For many parents, knowing that support is available beyond the hospital staff — whether practical, financial or emotional — transforms what can be a frightening experience into one where they feel supported and less alone. 

10. Final Thoughts

No parent ever wants to see their child in hospital. But when that time comes, knowing what to expect and where to find support can make a world of difference. Remember: 

• You are not alone — hospital teams and charities like The Archie Foundation are here to help. 

• It’s okay to feel anxious, overwhelmed and unsure — these are normal responses. 

• Being informed, prepared and supported makes the journey easier for both you and your child. 

Your child’s courage is remarkable — and with the right support, your family will find strength and resilience along the way.