The first information your child might hear about tonsils or adenoids is the news that he has to have an operation to remove them. This can be a disturbing experience for children and for parents, who dread the idea of their child being wheeled away for surgery. Children might be confused as to what tonsils and adenoids are, and how they can function without them, and explaining them to your child can help him feel better about surgery.
Step 1
Explain what tonsils and adenoids are and where each is located. According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology, tonsils and adenoids are masses of tissue that are part of the immune system. Tonsils are situated in the back of the throat and adenoids are located higher up in the throat, behind the nose and the roof of the mouth.
Step 2
Tell your child what tonsils and adenoids do. According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology, the tonsils and adenoids are designed to protect the body from germs that enter through the nose or mouth, like a gatekeeper. But you can tell your child that tonsils and adenoids seem to be outdated in their ability to fight modern infections. Texas Pediatric Surgery Associates reports that tonsils and adenoids might have been more effective in handling infections like worms or parasites that are infrequent in today's society.
Step 3
Explain what happens when tonsils or adenoids become infected or swollen. According to Texas Pediatric Surgery Associates, when adenoids grow too large, they might cause difficulty breathing, ear infections or sinus infections. Kids Health reports that enlarged tonsils can lead to recurring throat or strep infections, sleep apnea and trouble breathing. When the tonsils and adenoids "act out" in this way, they become more hurtful than helpful to the body.
Step 4
Explain that tonsils and adenoids are not strictly necessary. You can explain to your child that many people have had their tonsils and adenoids removed, and are fine without them. According to Texas Pediatric Surgery Associates, many studies have been conducted on whether the removal of these tissues negatively affects the immune system, and no such damage has been reported. If your child needs surgery, you should reassure him that he won't lose any important part of his body during this procedure, the American Academy of Otolaryngology advises.
Step 5
Tell your child that the removal of her tonsils/adenoids will make her feel better. According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology, you should explain to your child that once she has this surgery, her sore throat or trouble breathing will go away. You should, however, let her know that she will probably have a sore throat immediately after surgery and for about a week after. Tell her he can enjoy ice cream or other throat-soothing treats after the operation.
