Supporting Safe and Healthy Relationships at Banner Health

At Banner Health, we believe everyone - children, parents and caregivers - deserves to feel safe, respected, and supported in our facilities. Parenting can be rewarding but also challenging, especially during hospital visits or medical appointments. That’s why we’re here to help you navigate those moments with resources, tips and a commitment to fostering safe, healthy environments for everyone.

Parenting tips for a positive experience   

While in the hospital or at appointments, here are some strategies to keep your child engaged and help set expectations:   

• Bring activities. Pack a favorite toy, book or activity to help keep your child entertained.   
• Explain and connect. Talk to your child about what to expect during the visit and set clear but realistic expectations for their behavior.   
• Praise positive behaviors. Recognize and celebrate when your child behaves well.   
• Teach conflict resolution. Model and practice non-violent ways to manage frustrations or conflicts.   
• Take care of yourself. Parenting is hard work! Make time for small moments of self-care each day.   
• Reach out for support. It’s okay to ask for help—whether from a healthcare provider, family member or friend.   

We want to empower you with tools and strategies that make parenting during stressful situations a little easier.   

Creating safe spaces: The No Hit Zone   

To ensure that everyone feels safe and respected, all Banner Health facilities are No Hit Zones. This means:   

No adult shall hit a child.   
No child shall hit another child.   
No adult shall hit another adult.   
No child shall hit an adult.   

Why is this important? Research shows that physical punishment can negatively impact children’s development, self-esteem and behavior. At Banner Health, we are committed to providing families with alternatives to physical discipline that encourage learning, trust and healthy relationships.   

Why avoid physical punishment?   

Parenting is about guiding and teaching, and we now know more than ever about how children grow and learn. Research shows that physical punishment:   

• Increases aggression and disobedience in children over time. Hitting and spanking worsens behavior instead of 'fixing' bad behavior.   
• Is linked to lower self-esteem, cognitive delays and weaker moral development. It may increase physical and mental health problems and impair healthy relationships.
• Can damage trust between children and caregivers.   

By focusing on positive discipline, parents can teach children important life skills without the risks associated with physical punishment.   

Helpful resources for parents   

We know parenting can be overwhelming at times. Below are some trusted resources to help you with tips and tools for all ages and stages:   

• Banner Health Blog – Helpful tips for parents
• No Hit Zone- Tips for parents of children from birth through 18 years 
  • View in Spanish 
• The AAP Parenting Website 

For additional support, talk with your child’s doctor or ask about parenting classes and family support groups in your community.   

Together, we can build stronger, healthier relationships across the lifespan.