In pediatric ENT, it is easy to begin with the parent.
The history comes from the parent.
The consent comes from the parent.
The worry often comes from the parent.
But the child is still there.
Listening.
Watching.
Trying to understand what is happening.
I try to explain to the parent first, then turn to the child and say the same thing in simpler words.
Especially around age five or six, and especially for children with chronic conditions.
"You have fluid behind your ear."
"That is why sounds may feel unclear."
"Today I am going to look gently."
It does not take long.
But it changes the feeling in the room.
The child is no longer only the subject of the conversation.
They become part of it.
That is often where cooperation begins.
Educational writing, not a substitute for medical advice.