How to Prepare a Child for Getting Shots at the Doctor

Some parents think it's best to not tell their child that he will be getting shots at the doctor's office because they think that their child will be afraid. In reality, it's best to prepare a child in advance and let him know what to expect. Kids do best when they know what to expect and preparing them to get shots can help to make your doctor's visit a better experience. Follow these tips to help prepare your child for shots.

Instructions

1. Be honest. If you want your child to have a trusting and good relationship with her doctor, don't leave the doctor to be the bad guy. Instead, be upfront with your child and let her know that at this visit, the doctor will check her height, her weight and give her a vaccine. Let your child know that the shot may pinch for a minute, but the discomfort won't last long.

2. Be clear and brief. Don't go into a long explanation or talk with a lot of emotion. In a straightforward way, let your child know that shots are just part of the process.

3. Give short notice. Give no more than one day's notice to your child when you know that he'll be getting a shot. You don't want to give your child too much time to think about it, but you also want to give your child enough time to process the information. The evening before the appointment, offer a reminder.

4. Don't feed into drama. Your child may panic and protest getting a shot. Remain calm and cool and let him know that getting shots is just something we all have to do. Maintain the attitude that getting a shot is not a huge deal. Excessive coddling only feeds into his thoughts that shots are worth getting worked up about.

5. Back the doctor and staff. Don't engage in excess chatter or negotiations with your child about the shot. It only prolongs the experience and will lead the child to believe a shot is worth getting worked up about.

Tips & Warnings

• Let your child know why he is getting a shot. Reasons include to be healthy, to protect from disease and so that they can attend school.

• Tell your child that if he cooperates, you will give him a special treat after the appointment.

• If you tell your child that he won't be getting a shot and he ends up having to have one, you take the risk of being viewed as a liar. Honesty is the best policy.