Sometimes, thinking about something else is exactly what's needed.
Teenagers often understand well what will happen during an examination or treatment. Yet, an injection, IV, or other medical procedure can cause tension. That's why Mirre from 'Komt een Kind bij de Dokter' specially compiled this distraction set for teenagers. The materials are subtle, challenging, and suitable for an age where distraction preferably doesn't feel childish.
The set consists of a balance bird (finger bird), a Pinpression, and a cylinder puzzle. Each component invites the user to consciously direct their attention to something other than the treatment.
- The balance bird almost seems to float as it effortlessly balances on a fingertip. Searching for balance and following the movement immediately capture attention. The little beak on the finger provides a pleasant tactile stimulus, which is relaxing.
- With the Pinpression, an impression of a hand, finger, or small object is created in one motion. Feeling the moving pins and constantly making new shapes offers both visual and tactile distraction. Many teenagers naturally continue to experiment with the ever-changing patterns.
- The cylinder puzzle is a compact patience game that requires logical thinking and concentration. By solving the puzzle, attention is entirely focused on the challenge. Precisely this mental focus can help to make a tense or painful treatment less prominent.

These carefully selected materials are easy to use by doctors, nurses, doctor's assistants, and parents. They offer teenagers a suitable form of distraction without being childish and give them something active to do during a medical moment.

Benefits of this distraction set
- helps shift attention during an examination or treatment
- offers visual, tactile, and cognitive distraction
- stimulates concentration and problem-solving thinking
- gives teenagers an active way to deal with tension
- compact and easy to use in the consultation room, treatment room, or on the ward
- aligns with the world of teenagers

A well-thought-out distraction set that shows how a challenge, a surprising balancing game, and a tangible experience can together contribute to more calm during a medical moment.