Tips to make your child comfortable during immunizations

Summer days by the pool are ending and the back-to-school to-do lists are being completed. In between supply shopping and meeting the teacher, make sure to schedule time for your child’s school immunizations.    

Whether your child is starting preschool or their senior year, shots can be nerve-wracking! We recommend these resources to make immunizations less scary and start the school year off on a positive note.   

Plan out your visit   

Many children need a little planning before their shots to feel more comfortable. It’s important to explain what they should expect, where they are going and why and who they will be seeing. Honesty is the best policy when preparing for immunizations to avoid any fear for future visits.    

Give them a sense of control   

Immunization appointments for children who have a fear of needles can be scary. Reminding them they are in control of their body can bring comfort and a sense of empowerment in regard to their health. If you’re trying to think of ways to express this to your child, here are some ideas to get you started:   

• Let them pick which arm the vaccine goes in.   

• Allow them to choose a numbing technique, such as using a Lidocaine cream or a J-Tip if they are doing a blood draw. (See additional options based on your child’s age here.)   

• Have them choose a comfort position. This can vary based on the child’s age but includes things like cradling or sitting side by side in a chair. (Click here to see additional options.)  

• Build your own comfort kit. Every child’s comfort kit may be different based on what calms them; however, we have a list of suggestions that may help such as a stuffed animal, music or a book.   

• Let them know they can look while the shot is being given or look away – whichever they prefer.   

• Tell them they can keep eyes closed or open.   

• Provide them options of things to distract them. This is a great time to look over a new book with your child or listen to their favorite song.  

Providing your child with options throughout their appointment gives them a sense of control and can help ensure they are as comfortable as possible.    

Feelings are okay   

Pediatric trained doctors and nurses are in no rush when caring for children and understand this may be a new experience for both the child and parent. Bringing a comfort item from home, understanding their feelings and reminding them they are safe are all good ways to help your child feel safe and secure during their shots. If the feelings get too big, it is okay to reschedule and try again.    

Comfort is key   

The Comfort Promise is a program that was created to make children’s experience as positive as possible. Different ages have different needs when it comes to immunizations. Take a look for suggestions for your child’s age group under the “age-specific guidance for comfort during needle procedures."