Homesickness 'can be prevented'

Many children are easily ' homesick '. Psychologists think that homesickness should not be an unconscious experience for children in unfamiliar environments. In Pediatrics, they propose that simple steps including giving instructions can help prevent homesickness.

Surveys in the United States show that 90% of children who go camping in the summer are ' homesick ' - 20% miss homes vigorously. Youth tents are not very popular in the UK, but experts say children who stay long in hospitals can be helpful.

Dr. Christopher Thurber, a psychologist at Phillips Exeter Institute, a boarding school in New Hampshire, said: ' Over the past 100 years, tents and schools have praised homesick children, trying to make they are busy and hope that homesickness will pass away. But research shows that thinking about prevention is more beneficial and effective. '

Dr. Christopher Thurber and Professor Edward Walton - an expert in pediatric medicine, have compiled a list of tips for parents and caregivers about preparing children when away from home. .

This list of tips includes telling your child that homesickness is normal, encouraging them to write home, setting up time away from home and telling them to talk to their partner when they feel like missing home.

The advice also emphasizes the need to ensure that children carry medication when experiencing conditions such as lack of concentration, hyperactivity, confusion or behavioral problems along the way.

Professor Walton said: 'What parents say and what the pediatrician said earlier are significant and important to the intensity of homesickness.'

Play in the hospital

In the UK, staying in the hospital for even a few days can be a sad time for children and if they miss home ownership, this can hinder successful treatment.

At the famous Great Ormond Street Hospital for sick children in London, a strategy was put in place to make the kids feel as safe and comfortable as possible during their stay.

The hospital provides free overnight accommodation either in the same room as the child or in the recently opened 'hotel' for patients.

In every sick room there is a trained ' joker ' specialist whose job is to create a relaxing atmosphere for younger children.

A spokesman added: 'Each room has a social worker and a psychologist who serves that room - people who are always available to chat with children and staff who meet regularly to discuss individual cases. '

Thien Kim