Getting an MRI: A Cartoon for Kids

This child-friendly cartoon can help prepare your child for getting an MRI. www.chop.edu/radiology
In this animated MRI video created by child life specialists, your child will learn what to expect during an MRI scan from the point of view of a child who had an MRI with pediatric radiology experts at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. She talks about what the MRI machine looks like, the MRI technologist who helps her, the noise from the MRI machine, and more.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a powerful magnet, radiofrequencies and a computer to produce detailed images of the body’s organs and structures.
Your child will be asked to change into a hospital gown and take off any metal objects that are on his or her body, including earrings or other jewelry, due to the magnet inside of the MRI scanner.
The MRI machine looks like a small tunnel. The exam table looks like a small bed that slides into the opening of the tunnel. An MRI technologist takes pictures from the control room. The MRI technologist can see your child the whole time through the window into the control room, and they can talk to each other through microphones.
It is important for your child to be as still as possible so the MRI images don’t come out blurry. A child life specialist can help your child prepare for the exam and offer tips for staying calm and still.
The machine makes noises that can get a little loud, so your child can wear ear plugs or headphones during the MRI test. During the video, you and your child can listen to what the MRI noise sounds like.