Real talk
Making
vaccinations
with kids less
stressful
Vaccinations and the idea of an injection can be
scary for kids and distressing for parents. But as
pharmacists and vaccination specialists, we know
some great tips and tricks to help your appointment
go smoother, and allow your child to feel more
comfortable.
Tips
for caring for
a sick child
Here's some of my tips to help reduce the stress
of vaccinations with kids:
1. Explain it: explain in simple terms why it's
important to get vaccinated, how quick it is, and
what to expect at their appointment. It can help to
use words like 'uncomfortable, pressure or poke'
instead of 'pain, hurt and blood'. For younger
children who don't speak, a calm voice and hugs
can be soothing.
2. Story time: Before the appointment, read an age-
appropriate story book together about getting a
vaccination to make it relatable. There's a number
of books and eBooks available that can help.
3. Distraction: Bring comforting items to help calm
and distract your child during their vaccination -
try a favourite toy or book, a game on an iPad,
blow bubbles, or try wiggling their toes or being
funny.
4. Reward: many children respond well to rewards
(don't we all?). The promise of a treat such as a
trip to the movies, their choice for dinner, or a
sticker at the end of a vaccination may help to
calm them, and turn it into a positive experience.
Water - keeping up plenty of fluids is important, ensuring they drink
from one bottle or cup kept separate from other family members (to
avoid spreading germs)
Rest and warmth, ensuring their bed is made with fresh linen
Medicine - depending on their age, some medication may help in easing
symptoms, however it's best to speak to your pharmacist or GP about
what may be suitable
Nourishing, healthy food - soups or smoothies may help sore throats
Cuddles and reassurance
Distraction – books, toys, an ipad loaded with movies or a colouring-in
sheet may help take a little one's mind off how they feel temporarily
It's important to regularly monitor a sick child. If symptoms persist
or worsen, seek urgent advice from your GP.
5. Keep calm & carry on: Try to remain positive
and calm during the appointment, as children can
sense your anxiety. Positive reinforcement, praise
for 'being brave' and cuddles after a vaccination
can help to ensure the next vaccination isn't quite
YOUR FAMILY'S FLU
SEASON CHECKLIST
as scary.
Getting your child vaccinated doesn't need to be a
trip you both dread. Your local TerryWhite Chemmart
pharmacist is here to make vaccinations easier and
care for the health of you and the whole family. Book
your family into one of our family flu vaccination
clinics at www.terrywhitechemmart.com.au/
familyfluclinics
M Vaccinations - book your family's vaccinations in advance
so you can choose a day and time that works best.
Get the whole family vaccinated by booking into one of
our Family Flu Clinics. Visit www.terrywhitechemmart.
com.au/familyfluclinics
M Medicine kit - check you have enough children's pain
medication, dosing tools (syringe or cup), first aid kit
supplies, and that any medicine hasn't expired.
Also a good opportunity to check expiry on any
repeat prescriptions and get filled, if needed.
M Medication sheet – this can be useful if your child
becomes unwell, and may help you to manage
doses of different medications at different times
M Contact list - keep important numbers
handy, including your local pharmacist,
GP, closest hospital, a family member or
friend (to step in if needed), and your
childcare centre or caregiver
Amy Evans
Pharmacist
TerryWhite Chemmart
Rouse Hill
Source A: https://www.healthdirect.gov.aw/colds-and-flu-in-babies-and-children