May 18, 2009Kids PowerPhrase: questions for the doctor
Malcolm Gladwell writes about the power of teaching kids to SpeakStrong (not in those words) in his latest book, The Outliers. He referred to a parent who told her nine-year-old son to:
- Think of what questions you want to ask the doctor.
Her instruction taught her son to determine his needs, have an opinion and ask for what he wanted. In the treatment room, the boy asked questions, corrected the doctor’s assumptions, and took responsibility for the success of the exam. Gladwell observed that the doctor visit was a lesson in empowerment and getting needs met. Empower your kids to SpeakStrong too.
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[...] Communication is a big part of what our team does: in the examination room, on the phone, through email–even with Facebook status updates and Twitter “tweets.” One of the resources I use to improve my communication skills is a weekly email from speaker Meryl Runion. This week’s “Power Phrase” is one that all pet owners can and should remember: think of what questions you want to ask the doctor. [...]
Pingback by Priority Pet Hospital Blog » What do YOU want to ask the doctor? — May 21, 2009 @ 7:34 am
Great post, Meryl. This is a great phrase for pet owners, too. As a veterinarian, I’m always thrilled when clients claim responsibility for their pets’ well-being in the exam room. Passed this one on to our clients on Priority Pet Hospital’s Blog this morning.
Comment by Dr. Griswold — May 21, 2009 @ 7:45 am
I posted my reply to you on your blog. http://www.priorityveterinaryservices.com/blog/?p=100#comment-2239 Thanks!
Comment by merylrunion — May 23, 2009 @ 6:48 am