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Thank you to everyone who responded to my question if anyone had any
good ideas for calming my grandson when he goes for a blood test or a
possible biopsy for CD.

There were so many great hints and your concern was overwhelming.....a
big THANK U!!!!

Summarizing the Ideas:

1. Obtaining a prescription from your doctor for Emla, a topical
anesthetic cream, to use an hour before the blood test.   It helps to
numb the arm whereas the child won't feel anything.   Some said to put a
clear wrap like Saran Wrap,  a patch, or some way to make an air tight
cover so it won't smear or come off.....Put it on both arms in case they
can't locate a vein in one arm, they can try the other.....

2. Also, teach the children deep breathing and some meditation
techniques that help them to have control to calm themselves.  This has
worked on children as young as 3 yrs. old.

3. Have child sit on one's lap while the other adult is trying to draw
attention to a picture on the wall or something else.

4. Another mother says she lets her children watch as it is
interesting, explaining what they do with the blood.  Also, it helps
when the person who is taking the child is calm and positive.  Don't
take someone who gasps when the needle goes into the child.   Children
tend to pick up on other's anxiety... Make it seem normal.....Tell the
child that doctors, nurses, etc. help people and are our partners in
health in keeping us well and getting us well..

5. Try to go to a children's hospital where they have more compassion
and experience with little children.  For biopsies, children are
usually sedated but let them know what will be happening to them.

6. Don't offer any bribes, no promises, and no sugar-coating on
reality.  Be honest with them about everything...Tell them this may be
a way of life for them with periodic testing and maybe special diet for
the rest of their lives....

Thanks so much for the good hints.......This Nana and her family
appreciate your help....

This listserv for us Celiacs is simply wonderful and special thanks to
you listserv owners for making this possible for all of us.....God
Bless....JJ from Ashtabula, OH