Some children take a little longer to warm up to new places and new people, and we want visiting ACCC to feel manageable, not overwhelming, for every child — however long that takes.
No rush to the first touch. We don't expect a child to feel comfortable with hands-on care in the first minute, or even the first visit. We're happy to spend time chatting, letting your child watch, and building familiarity before we move to any physical assessment.
Your child gets a say. We explain what we're about to do in simple terms before we do it, and offer choices where we can — sitting on the table or on a parent's lap, for example. Feeling in control of small decisions can make a big difference to a shy or anxious child.
A private, low-pressure space. Initial consultations are in a private room, away from a busy waiting area. Lights can be dimmed, and we can keep the pace slow and predictable rather than rushed.
Parents stay close. Your child can stay on your lap or right beside you the whole visit — there's no expectation they'll separate from you to be seen.
Building trust over time. For some children, the first couple of visits are simply about becoming familiar with us and the space. We're happy to go at your child's pace across several appointments rather than expecting comfort straight away.
Same techniques, same options. As with all our young patients, we check in on what feels okay and can use gentler tools like the activator, the Rezzimax, or the infrared light therapy hat where appropriate.
Not sure how your child will settle in, or want to chat first? Book a free 10-minute phone call with one of our chiropractors.