Observational StudyA Mobile Application for Child-focused Perioperative Education

Patients and caregivers will use the "Ready for Tonsillectomy" mobile application on their mobile devices as they prepare for and recover from surgery, in addition to standard care. Individual families will receive a phone call for enrollment/verbal informed consent at least 2 weeks before the scheduled surgery, likely around the time of the clinic visit when surgery is scheduled. Participants assigned to the intervention arm will download the mobile application at this time. They will be able to access the application as often as desired in the weeks leading up to surgery and afterward.

Families will receive standard care (standard educational handouts and preoperative consults).

The "Ready for Tonsillectomy" mobile application provides child-focused, procedure-specific education developed with feedback from patients, caregivers, and pediatric otolaryngologists. The application guides patients and their families through each aspect of the surgical experience, including reasons for tonsillectomy, how to prepare for surgery, anesthesia, and postoperative recovery. Diverse characters focus on the child's perspective in the treatment process, showing what happens at each step. Written at an early elementary reading level (available in English or Spanish), the text is integrated with graphics and animations. The application aims to promote active learning and equip patients with positive expectations and coping strategies as they approach surgery. It also prepares caregivers to navigate their child's surgery and optimize recovery. Notifications provide key information and reminders for caregivers to promote adherence and address common questions.