How Can Parents Support and Guide Their Child When Long-Term Medication and Regular Blood Tests Are Needed?
Updated: Aug 2, 2025
In my parenting community, a parent sincerely shared their heartfelt experience:
“My child has a congenital condition that requires lifelong medication, three times a day. As long as he takes his medicine on time, his growth and development are no different from other children. However, ever since we found out about his condition, I have been wondering how to help him view taking medicine in a positive way. Should I describe the medication as a ‘supplement’? (After all, the medicine does provide what his body cannot produce on its own.)
Besides, we also need to take him for regular blood tests. Though he is only one and a half years old now, he no longer breaks down emotionally during blood draws. We always praise his bravery and patience and stay by his side. But I worry about how he will perceive these experiences when he grows older and reaches primary or secondary school. I want to build a positive message for him from an early age — but how should I do that?
What pains me the most is if one day he asks me, ‘Why do I have this illness?’ How should I answer?” This sharing reflects the deep care and struggles many parents face, especially when raising children with special needs. As a parenting coach, I hope the following responses can offer some support and guidance:
Parents’ Perspectives Shape How Children See the WorldChildren’s understanding largely develops from their parents’ words, emotions, and reactions. How we perceive medication and blood tests will greatly influence our child’s attitude toward them.Medication itself is neither good nor bad; it is neutral — a form of support tailored by the medical team to meet the child’s needs. If we avoid attaching negative feelings (like fear, worry, or pity) to medication, the child is less likely to see taking medicine as painful or a punishment.
No Need to Rebrand Medicine as a “Supplement” — Be Honest About Its RoleThough the word “supplement” sounds more neutral or positive, medicine and supplements are fundamentally different. As your child grows, help them understand: “Everyone’s body has different needs, and the medicine you take helps your body do things it can’t do on its own right now.” This honest communication nurtures self-awareness and self-acceptance.
About Blood Tests: Pain Can Be Felt and AcceptedYou are already doing an excellent job — offering company and encouragement during blood draws has helped your child become less fearful. Every time you praise their bravery and endurance, you help them see blood tests as a manageable experience, not something to fear.At the same time, if your child feels pain or discomfort during the process, there’s no need to rush to make them “be strong” or distract them. Instead, gently say: “I know it hurts, and I understand this is hard.” Letting your child know their feelings are understood and accepted helps them face future challenges in a healthier way.
Answering Your Child’s Future Question: “Why Do I Have This Illness?”There’s no need to rush to a “correct” answer. What matters most is responding sincerely and lovingly to your child’s doubts and emotions.You might say:
“You were born with a body that is a bit different and needs special care. But that doesn’t mean you’re any less — it means you have more courage and strength.”
“Your experience may be unique, but you are just as worthy of love and respect, and we will always be here with you.”Let your child know they don’t need to feel ashamed of their condition and that your love will never change.
Let Go of Guilt Toward Your ChildAs parents, we all want our children to be healthy and happy. Facing a child’s congenital condition can bring guilt or sorrow. But remember — your child doesn’t need your guilt, and pity won’t make them stronger.We can’t choose how a child is born, but we can choose how we walk alongside them with our hearts and attitudes. Perhaps your child came with a mission — to teach us to let go of perfection, to experience unconditional love, or to show the world that life can still shine brilliantly despite its challenges.
May every unique child feel endless love and support.May every dedicated parent believe they are already doing their best.
If you have parenting concerns or wish to connect with other parents, you are warmly invited to join our WhatsApp broadcast group for learning and growth:👉 https://chat.whatsapp.com/I6hUWW3RwGcDLTBCK6Y6Tp