Jilly's Big Sleep

Jilly thinks sleeping is boring!
But one day Jilly needs an operation,
and that means having a special sleep in hospital.
It’s a good thing she has Frankie along to help.

Jilly needs an operation, so she has to have a general anaesthetic. Jilly’s Big Sleep can help children and their families prepare for an anaesthetic by:

  • talking about what will happen before, during and after the anaesthetic
  • introducing the environment and equipment the child is likely to see in hospital
  • developing the child’s trust in the caring health professionals they’ll meet
  • making a plan to help the child feel comfortable in hospital, including what to pack and take (a favourite toy is a great idea!)
  • exploring emotions and sensations the child may have in relation to the operation, and how they’ll cope with these

Find more tips and information on helping prepare children for medical procedures on our medical stress information and resources page.