Jan. 9, 2019&mdash;Kids helping other kids learn about medical imaging exams to make them a little less scary. That's the idea behind a new website called <a href="https://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/submenu.cfm?pg=for-kids" target="_blank">RadInfo 4 Kids</a>.
Sometimes, because of accidents or illnesses, kids may need an imaging test like an x-ray, MRI or CT scan. To help them prepare, the <a href="https://www.netreturns.biz/healthinfo/bouncelink.aspx?shortcut=rsna" target="_blank">Radiological Society of North America</a> (RSNA) and the <a href="https://www.netreturns.biz/healthinfo/bouncelink.aspx?shortcut=radiology" target="_blank">American College of Radiology</a> (ACR) created the RadInfo 4 Kids site. It includes games, videos, stories, activities and more. 
By kids, for kids
The site includes stories and videos submitted by kids who've actually had an imaging test done. And that's helpful to other kids who may be getting ready to have an exam. Children tend to explain what their exam was like for them in ways that makes sense to other kids. So it may sound less scary coming from a kid versus an adult, the RNSA-ACR noted. 
For instance, one child submitted a video and picture book that explains the MRI she had on her hip after a being hurt in a basketball game. Another child's video describes having a head MRI scan.
Fun and games too
Kids who visit the site will also find fun activities with titles like Ultrasound Word Scramble and CT Scanner Maze. 
All of the features are short and can be viewed or read quickly. That's helpful when a kid is having an imaging exam due to an emergency, according to the RNSA and ACR. 
Another plus: It's often easier to perform exams quickly and effectively when a child is calm. And watching the videos may help parents and other caregivers feel less anxious about their children's exams too. 
Ready to get involved?
The website has a link to a page where parents can learn how to submit their kids' stories, comics, videos, drawings or other creative expressions.

Calling all 'rad' kids: Radiology website helps ease kids' fears

Read this if your child is nervous about an imaging test. 