Having gently-used books for kids to read while in the waiting room or for their siblings to take home is a great way to continue promoting literacy even after age 5.

Sources for gently-used books:

• • Your staff, send an email asking for book donations
• • Local library
• • High school groups like National Honors Society
• • Girl and boy scout troops
• • Lions club and other local community groups

Send the book guidelines so donations will be appropriate and pre-screened.

Removing screens from the waiting room including TVs

It’s no secret if a screen is present, people young and old tend to watch it and tend to engage with each other less. Encourage conversations and face to face time by removing all screens from your waiting room including the TV.

If your clinic insists on a TV screen or uses the monitor to promote health messaging, consider positioning your children’s area out of the view of the monitor.