The ultimate goal in discussing death with a dying child is to optimize his or her comfort and alleviate any fears. If the child is not ready to discuss death, the most helpful step parents can take is to wait until he or she is ready.

Detailed information on important decisions to be made when a child is dying, including the right to refuse treatment, to die at home versus the hospital, advanced directives, do not resuscitate, autopsy, organ donation, palliative hospice care, and funeral arrangements.

From babies to teens, a look at how children understand death.

Anticipatory grief is similar to the normal process of mourning, but it happens before the actual death.

Many surgeries performed on children are done as an outpatient. With minor surgeries, your child will return to the outpatient surgery center after spending the needed time in the recovery room.

Surgery doesn't always mean large incisions. Minimally invasive surgery is often used today. This uses small cuts, and allows a child to recover faster and with less pain.

Detailed information on surgery in children

Detailed information on surgery in children

Read books to your toddler about going to the hospital. Keep any explanations simple and be careful with the words you use.

Allow your teen to be part of the decision-making process. Encourage them to make a list of questions to ask the healthcare providers.