How to Assist Your Child in Receiving a Flu or Immunization Vaccine

The great debate. To vaccinate or not to vaccinate your child. The pros and cons are listed in black and white on the consent sheet the nurse hands you. As every parent knows the true challenge is the turmoil the child goes through in the process. So, once again to vaccinate or not to vaccinate. The following article will offer pointers on how to assist your child in having an experience which won't lead to therapy in the future.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Time
• Patience
• Will power
• Hopefully not muscles

1. Keep your emotions in check. This is one of the most important steps. Now for a hyper-phobic needle person like myself this is difficult at best. Children read the emotions of the people around them. This is especially true for their caregivers emotions. By demonstrating a calm demeanor your child will be more likely to be calm and accepting of the situation.

2. Give your child a reference moment. Have your child observe you receiving an immunization. If you are going to cry or have another negative reaction then this is not suggested. One of my strongest moments was when my child entered the room when my blood was being drawn. As with all areas of your life, be a strong role model. If your child sees it is a safe situation they will be more receptive.

3. It is important to let your child now the immunization is a necessary event. Explain the purpose of the immunization. Please do not say, 'It will only hurt a little'. This is not necessary. This has potential to build anxiety. You don't want your child to distrust you either so it is not recommended to say it won't hurt. Stick to the facts and don't elaborate. Set a positive atmosphere.

4. In the event your child becomes apprehensive it is important to continue with the appointment. Do not set a precedent for future situations. Your child needs to know the immunization is occurring for a reason. To postpone the event will only increase apprehension. Children are smart and they know how to work their care givers. If you give in this time, the potential for avoidance in the future is likely.

Tips & Warnings

• Stickers, candy or toys can be beneficial. However, remember once again you will be setting a precedent for future situations.
• Remember this is for your child's best interest.
• This information is not supplied by a professional. These are the opinions of one to be applied as the reader deems appropriate.

[motherNN]

on 3/1/2009 It's hurts us Moms more than the kids getting a shot!5*

[newmama]

on 12/9/2008 Isn't it awful seeing your child get that needle. My daughter gives the most awful pouty lip...that makes me want to cry more than the thought of her getting a needle. Thanks for the article on how to help her and me!

[MIghtyDreamer]

on 12/6/2008 Good advice and lead in. Why not talk about how to assist a child in getting these things if a parent/custodian is going to have the child vaccinated or given a flu shot. Didn't know children are actually getting FLU shots. wow or is it some new med called a flu vaccine?

[taskeinc]

on 12/3/2008 Really glad those days are over .. daughter took shots pretty well but not my son ..