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How can I help my child get
through this?
For a child, going to the doctor may be associ-
ated with getting a shot, and that’s because kids
nowadays get vaccines to protect them from
14 diseases. That’s a lot of shots!
Even though the pain from most vaccinations
isn’t bad, many kids still fear them. With a few
simple strategies, parents can help ease both the
dread and the discomfort of shots.
Soothe infants and babies:
• Place a tiny bit of sugar on a newborn’s tongue.
(This probably won’t help with older babies.)
• Bring a favorite toy for baby to hold.
• Make eye contact and smile.
• Softly sing a favorite lullaby.
• If you’re breastfeeding, nurse your baby.
• Afterward, hold and rock your baby in firm, lov-
ing arms.
Comfort toddlers:
Ask your doctor about using a cooling spray or
topical anesthetic to numb the injection site.
• Hold your little one on your lap, chest to chest.
• Read a favorite story.
• Blow the pain away. Ask your toddler to blow
you kisses or to set a pinwheel spinning.
Empower older kids:
• Ask whether your child can pick the shot site.
Having a sense of control may make getting
vaccinated easier.
Relieve the after-pains:
Sometimes kids have soreness at an injection site
or feel fussy or feverish after a shot. These things
may help:
• Place a cool, damp washcloth on the injection
site.
• Give your child acetaminophen or ibuprofen to
reduce fever. Never give aspirin.
Serious reactions to vaccines are rare. Still, any
time you are worried about your child’s health,
don’t hesitate to call your doctor.
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