Smooth your child’s immunization schedule by making shots less scary

From the day they are born, vaccines play a key role in children's health. They reinforce babies' developing immune systems and help protect against serious diseases. Following your child's immunization schedule — the sequence of expert-recommended vaccinations — is one of the most important things you can do for your child's health.

Despite all this, many children are afraid of getting shots, which can influence a parent's decision about getting them. Not wanting to deal with a vaccine-related meltdown, some parents may delay annual pediatric visits. If you're one of these parents, it's important to get your child's immunization schedule back on track. The fear of needles usually fades as children age. Until then, you can take steps to ease your child's anxiety. Start by taking a few steps before your child's next well visit.

Immunization prep starts at home

Many childhood vaccinations take place from birth to 24 months, but the immunization schedule doesn't end there. Several more primary shots and booster doses are necessary through age 18.

To help your child feel calmer about an upcoming shot, have a pre-appointment conversation one or two days in advance. Listen to worries and express empathy. Make it clear you know immunizations — avoid the word "shot" if you can — aren't fun but you and your child's provider will make the experience as comfortable as possible.

Here are some additional things you can do:

• Don't dismiss or downplay their fear of shots. Telling your child not to worry can have the opposite effect. Instead, acknowledge their concerns and promise you'll work to address them together.
• Emphasize the benefits of immunizations. Talk about how vaccines help your child stay healthy and safe at school and also help protect classmates.
• Honesty is the best policy. Telling your child shots are painless (which they will soon discover isn't true) can undermine their trust in you. Instead, let your child know shots only hurt for a little while.
• Mind your manner. Your child takes behavioral cues from you. When you're calm and positive, kids may also be less likely to get upset.
• Turn playtime into a trial run. Kids can give pretend shots to a doll or stuffed animal, which can help them get acquainted with the process.

Coordinate with your child's provider

At least a day before the scheduled vaccine appointment, let the provider know your child is anxious about it. Pediatricians are experienced at caring for children who are afraid of shots. Discuss ways to help your child feel calm and comforted that day.

Using a cream or spray to numb the area may help, and some providers suggest holding your child in your lap, with his or her head resting against your shoulder, can increase feelings of safety and comfort.

Immunization time: keep calm and comfort on

When it's time for your child's shot, these steps can help ease the experience:

• Breathe together. Encourage your child to breathe slowly and deeply to help stay calm and reduce the pain. Breathe this way together to show your support.
• Bring a favorite doll or stuffed animal. Your child might want something to cuddle before, during, and after the shot.
• Encourage your child to cough. Coughing while receiving a shot can reduce pain and distract your child from focusing on the needle.
• Divert attention. Let your child watch a favorite show on your phone or tablet or have a talk during the shot.
• Give your child something to look forward to. Suggest doing something fun after the appointment to strengthen your child's resolve.
• Use a vibration tool for pain control. Placing vibration on the skin near the shot location can redirect the nervous system and reduce pain, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Learn how pediatric services at Reid Health help keep children healthy and thriving. Request an appointment with one of our board-certified pediatricians.