Journal Entry

How to make needles and shots less scary for children

Honesty is the best policy when dealing with children and medical visits

When the needle-bearing nurse comes into the room, it may be you who is more worried about the shot than your child. Seeing him tear up and cringe in fear is likely to send your panic button into overdrive. But you’ve got to steel yourself and strategize, figuring out ways to help your baby or older child cope with those needle pokes, given that immunizations and shots are an important part of her overall health or perhaps even necessary for other medical procedures. There are ways to help make these needle sticks easier for kids to accept.

Bring a lovey dovey

For a baby, bring a familiar blanket or his pacifier or even be ready to offer a bottle or an immediate breastfeeding right after a shot. Even for older children, sneak that tattered teddy in your purse. The familiar object may provide just the right comfort.

Use you voice

Nothing is more comforting to your child than your voice. Soothe your child by singing or talking softly. Keep a steady stream of words or song going to let him know that you’re not only there, but calm, and your feelings will wash over him, too.

Hold on

If the doctor will allow it, hold your child during an immunization. Your cuddles will help her feel safe and protected. If the doctor needs less-restricted access, be sure to scoop your child up immediately after and make sure to hold her close, kissing and hugging her tightly, reassuring her that she’s safe.

Explain in advance

For older kids, don’t spring shots on them as a surprise addition to a doctor visit. This will make them dread every appointment. On the other hand, don’t warn them a week in advance, either. They’ll feel an ominous sense of impending doom. Explain the benefits behind a shot and the relative pain level; perhaps compare it to a sting or a pinch. If you don’t know whether your child will be receiving a shot, be honest.

Distraction

Come up with techniques like counting to five and telling your child that the shot will be over before he can reach the number five. Or tell him to take a deep breath and close his eyes. You can also ask him to squeeze your hand really hard when he feels the poke. Most distraction techniques only work for older children. But try asking him to come up with something that he thinks would work. Maybe he wants to list his favorite colors or describe his favorite car.

Magic object

Give your child a “magic” object that she can wear or hold at doctor visits. It will give her a sense of power over the needle prick. Be creative. Maybe you’ve got an old piece of costume jewelry, or you can decorate an old piece of felt to look like an heirloom sash. As she clutches her object, she’ll feel empowered against the doctor.

Reward

You know your child best. If your child treasures banana milkshakes above all else, promise him a visit to the malt shop after he braves the doctor’s office. He’ll be distracted by the anticipation of the treat. Just make it a small size and kiss his boo-boo.

Everybody hurts

Let your child know that it’s okay to cry; even big kids. A visit to the doctor that ends in shots can make even the toughest kid break down in tears, and it’s important to let your child express her pain without making her feel ashamed. Comfort her and give her a safe environment to do so, your arms.
No one likes getting shots, especially kids. But as we grown up, we get a better understanding for why they are so important. As we watch our kids get stuck with the needle, we just wish they didn’t have to hurt so much.

Resources :
http://www.mayoclinic.com