ATTENTION Seasonal Visitor Guidelines Now in Effect View Guidelines
« Child Life

Preparing Your Child for an MRI

The first time anyone has an MRI, it's a rather unique experience. Here at HSHS St. Vincent Children's Hospital, we get that.

What is an MRI?

An MRI is how we can take pictures of the inside of your child's body, such as their brain or foot, with a big special camera. Watch this video to learn more!  

Kitten Scanner Makes MRI Easier for Kids

We understand that medical imaging can feel new and unfamiliar for children. That's why we offer the “Kitten Scanner,” a child-sized practice scanner that helps kids prepare for their MRI. Children can send a stuffed animal companion (Ollie the Elephant, Chris the Alligator or Doris the Chicken) through the toy scanner, which mimics the lights, sounds and process of a real MRI. This playful introduction helps reduce anxiety by making the procedure familiar with a cozy friend. While sedation is available, practice through play often allows children to remain calm and still during their scan without medication.

Child Life Can Help

If you are concerned about how to discuss any of this with your child, Child Life Specialists at HSHS St. Vincent Children’s Hospital can help. They are trained to teach children and families the skills it takes to cope with a hospitalization. Child Life Specialists can help children and families prepare for the experience by using medical play, age-appropriate explanations and comfort measures. If you are interested in speaking or meeting with a Child Life Specialist, call 920-433-8641, email [email protected] or notify your child’s doctor.