Immunizations are a part of preventative healthcare that will help to keep your child from getting sick when in contact with various germs. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the American Academy of Pediatrics provide vaccine schedules for children of all ages, from birth to 18 years. 

Staying up-to-date on vaccinations provides your child with a layer of defense against illness, keeping them healthy and thriving. However, there is no denying the fact that most kids just don’t like getting shots. 

This article explores how to prepare your child for vaccines and make it a smooth experience. 

Talk Openly and Honestly With Your Child

Surprising your child with a vaccination may seem like the best idea and the easiest way to get them into the pediatrician’s office. Unfortunately, this usually does not go over well. 

Instead of keeping it quiet, talk to your child — and be honest. Using age-appropriate language that they will understand, explain what the vaccine is and what it does for them. An example for young kids is to explain that the vaccine has miniature superheroes that go into the body and fight off bad germs. 

Don’t sugarcoat the shot itself, as they are going to feel a little sting or pinch. Share this tidbit of information ahead of time so they are prepared for it. Just be sure to remind them of its benefits for their health. 

Open these lines of communication well before the appointment and continue bringing it up until the time comes. To reduce anxiety, you want your little one to understand that this is all a natural part of going to the doctor. 

Teach (and Practice) Breathing and Calming Techniques

One of the best things you can do to help your child get through their immunization appointment is to build coping skills. Breathing and other calming techniques can help to reduce fears and anxieties that come with the anticipation. 

Teach your child to take slow, deep breaths. If your child is old enough to count and understand, box breathing is highly effective — breathe in for 4 counts, hold for 4 counts, breathe out for 4 counts, and hold for 4 counts. Then, repeat.

Guided imagery is another calming technique that can be beneficial in this moment. Have your child close their eyes and imagine they are hanging out in their favorite place. Ask them what they see, where they are, and what they are doing. Let them choose a place that helps them feel relaxed and safe. 

Finally, distractions like video games, books, toys, and the like are a great way to turn the mind away from the dreaded shot. 

Address Your Child’s Concerns

Always, always address your child’s concerns. Once you begin discussing vaccinations, your little one’s mind is going to start churning. There will be thoughts, questions, and concerns that arise — do not dismiss them. Instead, validate their feelings, letting them know it is okay to be scared. And remind them you will be right there for support the whole time. 

Let your child express how they are feeling and talk about it. Ease their concerns as soon as possible, but discuss this as many times as they bring it up. 

Engage in Positive Reinforcement

Use positive words, giving praise for being strong and getting through the vaccination. And why not pair a vaccination appointment with something fun? After all, you always want to reward good behavior. 

Go out for lunch after the appointment or stop at the park for a little playtime. Or, perhaps you two can watch a movie together with some popcorn when you get back home. 

Making it a good day takes away from all the attention given to the immunizations. This will help your child recognize that getting a shot was just a single moment in the middle of an awesome day. 

Stay Up-to-Date With Vaccinations at Advocare Haddon Pediatrics

At Advocare Haddon Pediatrics, we value the importance of immunizations and the role they play in our patients’ health. To learn more about the immunization schedule and see what is due for your child, schedule an appointment with our pediatricians at one of our convenient locations. 

We look forward to helping you build a healthy future for your child.