All children experience painful episodes because of minor injuries or illnesses. At these times, it is generally parents who
are responsible for treating the injury or illness and the associated pain. If a child goes to hospital for minor surgery,
such as a tonsillectomy, he likely will go home before all post-operative pain has gone away. Children no longer stay in hospital
until they have fully recovered from surgery. Recovery, including the management of pain, often continues at home.
For children with ongoing painful conditions, parents will play an even larger role in managing pain. In these cases, it is
necessary for parents to help their child learn how to cope with pain. The good news is that children and families can learn
to treat and manage most pain at home effectively.
