Many parents and caregivers naturally worry about their child’s vaccine visit. That is because there is some pain and discomfort that goes along with getting a shot.  Helping your child face their fear of needles is an important way to support their future health.

There are things to do before, during, and after vaccine visits to make them easier and less stressful.

Take these steps before your child gets a shot to help make the immunization visit less stressful for both of you.

• Find your child’s personal immunization record and bring it to your appointment. An up-to-date record tells your doctor exactly which shots they have already received.
  
• Pack a favorite toy or book or a blanket they use regularly for comfort.

Support older children before the visit by: 

• Being honest. Explain that shots can pinch or sting, but that it will not hurt for long. Avoid promises that there won’t be shots at medical visits. This makes it hard on everyone if your child is due for vaccines that day.
• Including other family members, especially older siblings, to support them.
• Avoiding telling scary stories or making threats about shots.
• Reminding them that vaccines can keep them healthy.

Try these ideas for making the shots easier on your child.

Baby: 

• Swaddling
• Skin-to-skin contact
• A soothing voice, combined with cuddles
• Breast or chestfeeding (this has been shown to alleviate pain)

Toddlers and younger children:

• Distract and comfort your child by cuddling, singing, or talking softly.

• Smile and make eye contact with them. Let them know that everything is okay.

• Comfort them with a favorite toy or book. A blanket that smells familiar will help them feel more comfortable.

• Hold them firmly on your lap, or ask to be there to put a soothing hand on your child whenever possible.

Older child:

• Take deep breaths with your child to help “blow out” the pain.
• Point out interesting things in the room to help create distractions.
• Tell or read stories.
• Offer support if your child cries. Never scold a child for not “being brave.”

Sometimes children have pain or a rash where the shot was given or develop a fever. These side effects are signs that your child’s body is working to build immunity. These reactions are common and typically go away soon. The following tips will help minimize mild side effects.

Tips

• Review any information your doctor gives you about the shots, especially the Vaccine Information Statements or other sheets that outline which side effects might be expected.

• Use a cool, wet cloth to reduce redness, soreness, and swelling in the place where the shot was given.

• Reduce any fever with a cool sponge bath. If your doctor approves, give non-aspirin pain reliever.

• Give your child lots of fluids. It is common for some children to eat less during the 24 hours after getting vaccines.

• If you see something that concerns you, call your doctor.