With the recent news that a formal submission to request Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) of the Pfizer and Biontech COVID-19 vaccine for children 5 to 12 years of age is expected soon, you may be deciding whether or not to have your child(ren) vaccinated. You could also be contemplating getting your kids a flu shot or any other number of childhood vaccinations. However, you may be hesitant because your child(ren) does not like getting shots.
Know that you’re not alone. A recent study published by the National Library of Medicine, determined that a “fear of needles is common in patients requiring preventive care and in those undergoing treatment.” This is why it is so important for parents and caregivers to have open conversations with kids, while also validating their anxiety of getting shots.
Here are 7 tips for soothing kids when getting shots:
1. Be honest.
Talk to your kids about the importance of vaccinations and why we get them, such as protecting their friends at school or their grandparents. Talking about the reasons to face the dreaded needle should also be done in an age-appropriate way. And if you’re shot-hesitant yourself, be honest about that, too. Ignoring a child’s fears about getting jabbed can lead to a more negative experience.
2. Stay positive and upbeat.
Smile, relax! Your attitude and appearance is more important than you may realize, because young children take cues from their parents. If you grimace or tense up, your child may become anxious, too.
3. Comfort and distract.
For younger children, hugging or holding them during their shot can decrease their stress and pain levels. You can also bring along items your child finds comforting, like a favorite toy, blanket, or book, to help them focus on something pleasant. (Make sure to check with your doctor before bringing items into the room with you.). Even playing videos or a game on your phone to distract them can help.
4. “Practice” beforehand.
Eliminate the element of surprise by discussing with your child what to expect at their next appointment. For younger kids, you can read books about going to the doctor or have them practice by giving their stuffed animals a shot with their toy medical kit. Whatever you can think of that will familiarize them with the tools and gadgets the doctor will use.
5. Dull the pain.
Ask your child’s doctor for a pain-relieving ointment, which blocks pain signals from the skin. Because the ointment takes time to work, ask about it before your next well-child visit. Or, request a cooling spray (vapocoolant), which is applied on your child’s arm or leg right before the shot.
6. Offer a reward.
Many pediatricians’ offices give stickers or suckers to patients after their shot. If your doctor, doesn’t do that or it’s not a big enough incentive for your kiddo, offer to take your child to the park or stop for ice cream on the way home. Whatever the “thing” is that will sooth and entice your child into getting their shot.
7. Choose what works best for your child.
All kids are different. Soothing tactics that work for one child may not work for another or you may need to use a combo of each one. Some kids may benefit from deep breathing before or during the shot. Another may want to yell during the shot. And, if it works, you just might want to yell along with them!
Do you have any tips that work for soothing your kids when getting shots?
