CollyvaleA little place for big feelings.The Kitchen Table · Helping your child through…
Vaccinations are quick, but the worry beforehand can feel much bigger than the shot itself, for children and grown-ups alike. Being gently honest and giving your child a few simple things to do can make a real difference.
Children usually cope better when what happens matches what they were told. Instead of “It won't hurt”, try “It might feel like a quick scratch or pinch, and then it's all done.” Keep it short and calm, and tell them near the time rather than days ahead.
Not every vaccine is an injection. The children's flu vaccine, for example, is usually a quick spray up the nose. Check which one your child is having so you can describe it accurately.
Praise what they did: “You held so still, that was really brave.”
The injection site may feel sore for 2 to 3 days. That's common and usually passes on its own.
If you're worried about how they're feeling afterwards, ask the nurse or check healthychildren.org.
This poem describes an injection in the arm. If your child is having a nasal spray or an injection in the thigh, describe what will happen at their appointment instead.
Today I'm having something special,
A vaccine, small and quick,
It helps my body learn to fight
The germs that make me sick.
It's like a tiny teacher
That goes inside to say,
"Here's how to beat those nasty germs
If they come by one day."
The nurse will clean a little spot
Upon my arm so neat,
I'll sit up close to someone safe,
Or snuggle on their seat.
It might feel like a scratchy pinch,
A quick and tiny sting,
But it is over very fast,
As quick as anything.
I can look away if I want to,
Or watch, it's up to me,
I'll squeeze a hand and wiggle toes,
And count, one, two, three.
And while it's happening I'll breathe,
Just like I always do:
Breathe in slow, like smelling flowers,
Then blow the candles, whoo.
My arm might feel a little sore,
A bit achy for a while,
That's just my body learning hard,
Then soon I'll wear a smile.
Then I'll get a sticker and a cheer,
A cuddle warm and true,
I did a brave thing for my body,
And I'm so proud of me too!
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Collyvale provides general information, stories and family activities. It is not a medical or mental-health service and does not replace professional advice. If a child's worry is persistent, severe or interfering with everyday life, speak to their school, school nurse or doctor. If you're worried about your own wellbeing, please talk to your doctor. You can also find trusted information at healthychildren.org.