There is little published literature regarding children and young people with stomas and their pre-operative care. Research in adults reveals negative psychosocial consequences, but the perceptions of children and young people may be different, depending on the reason for the stoma formation and the degree of involvement in decisions. Post-operative problems and later negativity can be minimised with informed decision making and partnership from the outset between the healthcare team, parents and child. Preparation approaches known to be successful for other forms of surgery can be adapted to prepare the child/young person for stoma surgery.