Making vaccinations easier: Simple strategies to reduce stress for babies, children and parents

As any new mom can tell you, the first vaccination appointment with your baby will likely be more stressful for you than your baby! But whether it’s first shots or vaccinations for your older child, some simple techniques can make the experience less stressful for everyone.

Start by doing your research—read vaccine materials from your child’s healthcare professional and write down questions you have before your visit. You can learn more about the benefits and risks of specific vaccines by reviewing the Vaccine Information Statements (VISs), also available at your doctor’s office.

How to hold your child during vaccinations

Holding your child while they’re vaccinated can provide calming comfort and there are several different hold options. Talk with your healthcare provider about the safest way to hold your child and follow the hold option they suggest for your situation.

Holding infants and toddlers

Try the “comfort hold” for this age group. This is helpful if your child is getting a shot in the leg. Hold the child in your lap, sitting sideways. A variation of this hold is called the “side comfort hold.” Another option is the “chest to chest” comfort hold. Have your child sit on your lap facing you and wrap your child’s legs around your waist. It may help you get familiar with these hold options before your baby’s appointment.

Holding older children

If your child is getting a shot in the arm, hold them on your lap or have the child stand in front of you as you sit. Embrace your child during the process. Anchor both of the child’s legs between your thighs. There are several variations of this hold.

Try this: If your child appreciates being given choices, show them several hold options and ask them to choose the one that feels best for them.

Making vaccinations easier for babies and younger children

1. Pack their favorites: Bring your child’s favorite toy, book, blanket or comfort item.
2. Stay calm: Your baby takes cues from you. Stay calm and steady. By smiling and talking with your baby in a relaxed tone, you’re letting them know they’re in a safe spot with people there to help them.
3. Try a pacifier and/or breastfeeding: If your baby feels comforted or falls asleep often with a pacifier, try giving them one before their shots. Breastfeeding can be an excellent way to calm and relax your baby and provide the comfort of being held close.
4. Ask for a sweet treat: Research shows that tasting something sweet can help reduce pain for children under two. Ask your child’s doctor to give your child a sweet solution of sucrose or glucose one or two minutes before the shot.
5. Distraction: Singing, talking softly, listening to or watching music or a video and playing games are great ways to distract your younger children. While babies won’t be aware of their surroundings, toddlers may be old enough to begin associating the doctor’s office with fear. Try to create new associations by playing a game or bringing a new toy for them to explore.
   
   Try this: Wrap a favorite toy or book up and give it to your toddler to open during their appointment. The unwrapping process can be as exciting for them as what’s inside.

Making vaccinations easier for older children

1. Be honest: Older children will know that a doctor’s appointment often means getting a shot. Be honest and talk with them about the science behind vaccines and why immunizations keep them healthy. Use less scary words like “pressure” instead of “pain” or “poke” rather than “shot.”
2. No shame: Do not shame or scold your child for not being brave. Give your child the freedom to express a range of emotions.
3. Breathe with your child: This is a great time to share simple but calming breathing techniques they can use in many instances. Take a deep breath in through the nose with them and then “blow out the pain” through the mouth.
4. Distraction for older kids: Distraction can help for children of all ages. Talk with your child about something they’re passionate about. Ask them to tell you the plot of their favorite book or movie. Screen time with their favorite show, movie or even music on your phone can also help distract them.
   
   Try this: Tell a story with your child by alternating sentences. You start the story with one sentence or thought. Then it’s their turn to continue it, and then yours, etc. This can be a fun, unexpected way to get through a scary moment together.
5. Prevent injury: If you think your child might faint or feel lightheaded, have them stay seated during and after the shot for at least 15 minutes.

Additional pain relief options

Your pediatrician’s office may have additional support items, such as pain-relieving analgesia ointment or spray, that can be applied before the injection. These need to be applied to the vaccination site 30 to 60 minutes before the vaccination. It’s best to call ahead to ask whether you may be able to pick this up and apply it at home before the appointment. Another option is a vibrating tool that can be applied near the injection site right before the shot to help minimize pain.

After the shot

You may be surprised by your baby’s reaction to being given a shot. Some babies may cry for a few seconds to a few minutes, while others may barely react.

After the shots, go over any potential reactions with your provider. Some infants and children may experience sleep changes, such as sleeping more after vaccinations. You may also note some temporary fussiness.

Mild reactions, such as pain at the injection site, are likely common and will go away soon. You’ll also find this information on the Vaccine Information Sheet(s) (VIS) your child’s provider should provide at the appointment.

You can minimize mild side effects by:

• Giving non-aspirin pain reliever (ask your provider for suggestions)
• Using a cool, damp cloth to reduce redness and/or soreness at the injection site

After the appointment, watch your child for any concerns and call your provider with questions.

Are you looking for a pediatric care team for your baby or child? Sentara provides pediatric care in southeastern and central Virginia and northeastern North Carolina.