Setting The Scene: Telehealth
Young patients say they prefer a "less formal" room set-up, so you may wish to avoid having a table between the patient and the video-recording device (or you and the video-recording device).
Many seating arrangements can work for children. Children can sit next to the caregiver, between the caregivers, on a caregiver's lap, or in front of the caregiver in either their own chair or on the floor.
Larger rooms tend to work best with younger patients, so they can move around. In addition, if a child's motor skills, play, exploration, and movements are being assessed, the room should be large enough for this activity to fit within the camera frame.
Teens may prefer to be seen without a caregiver present. Use clinical judgment to ensure appropriate privacy is maintained (e.g., patient feels comfortable they are not being overheard). If a patient expresses any discomfort with full video, text/chat functions are available in some telehealth systems and may be useful for older patients (likely over 11 years old).
Ensure your video is sufficiently "zoomed in" for the patient to see your facial expressions.
Try to maintain a constant gaze into the camera, rather than frequently looking away at your computer or notes.
Patients may enjoy using telehealth background features. This can support the patient's sense of control, by allowing the patient to choose the "location" for next session (e.g., in outer space or even upload a background picture of a favorite location).