Objective:To illuminate child healthcare nurses’ experiences of communication with 4-year-old children during their visit to the child healthcare center.DesignA qualitative method, using data collected from individual interviews.

Sample: Fifteen semistructured interviews with nurses working in a child healthcare center.

Measurements:The results were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results:The analysis resulted in three themes and eight subthemes: Adapting to the child in the conversation, based on the subthemes Preparing for the visit, Listening in and observing, and Creating a welcoming environment; Combining strategies for the conversation, based on the subthemes Engaging the child, Using visual tools, and Parental involvement; and Challenges due to language barriers, based on the subthemes Using an interpreter and Parent acts as interpreter.

Conclusion: Child healthcare nurses focus on the child when communicating and strive to create joy and a welcoming environment. The communication strategies employed during the visit include engaging the child directly, involving parents in the conversation, and balancing the parental involvement. Communication challenges related to language barriers are addressed, particularly during interpreter-assisted conversations. The study indicates a need for tailored strategies, collaboration, and sensitivity to ensure a child-centered approach.