Parenting & Vulnerability: Preparing Your Child for Adenoid, Tonsil & Grommet Surgery

In this heartfelt episode of Dam Parenting, host Eva shares her personal journey of her daughter's adenoid removal, tonsillectomy, and grommet surgery. From the raw vulnerability of handing your child over to doctors, to practical tips on preparation and recovery, this episode blends emotional honesty with useful advice for parents facing similar procedures.

We’ll cover:

• How to prepare your child emotionally and practically for surgery

• What to expect before, during, and after adenoid, tonsil, and grommet procedures

• Tips for making hospital day smoother (yes, pajamas matter!)

• Recovery essentials: ice pops, jelly, and comfort strategies

• Parenting vulnerability and what Brené Brown teaches us about courage

  
  

If you’re a parent navigating pediatric ENT/KNO surgery or just looking for reassurance in moments of parenting vulnerability, this episode is for you.

• Anna in het ziekenhuis — Liesbet Slegers

• Karel in het ziekenhuis — Liesbet Slegers

• Kevin Goes to the Hospital — Liesbet Slegers (English)

• Anna in het ziekenhuis — Kathleen Amant

• Nijntje in het ziekenhuis (Miffy at the Hospital) — Dick Bruna

• Bobbi naar het ziekenhuis — Monica Maas

• Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood — “Daniel Goes to the Hospital” (YouTube, ~26 minutes)

• Bluey — Bumpy and the Wise Old Wolfhound (Season 1, Episode 32)

• Pack comfy pajamas for your child (many hospitals expect it).

• Bring an extra sweater or scarf for yourself—waiting rooms can be cold.

• Stock up on recovery snacks: ice pops, jelly, clear juices. Let your child choose them in advance for a sense of control.

• Create a comfort kit: favourite toy, books, or shows lined up for recovery week.

• Use mantras or rituals to ground yourself during the wait. (“It’s routine. She’s safe. She’s brave.” helped me.)

• Don’t forget self-care: eat, hydrate, breathe. You can’t pour from an empty cup.

Parenting through surgery is an exercise in vulnerability and courage. As Brené Brown reminds us, vulnerability isn’t weakness — it’s the birthplace of connection and love.

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