Following the development of science and technology and the improvement of the people‑oriented medical concept, the application of virtual reality (VR) technology in the medical field is more common recently. VR technology is a kind of technology that projects the three‑dimensional virtual space generated by computers, making users have a high sense of immersion and presence. Many studies have shown that VR technology is safe and feasible and can relieve anxiety and reduce pain. This review summarizes the development of VR technology, the application mechanism of VR‑assisted pediatric anesthesia, and other medical operations. Virtual reality technology as a non‑invasive, low‑cost new frontier technology, more application value in pediatric anesthesia needs to be explored, and the related research still needs to be further expanded.