Issue Date: November 16, 2008
Ease shot fears
Shots, feared by children, are perhaps even worse for the parent who has to watch.
The bad news: Flu shot season is here, and this year, the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that all children get the shot.
The good news: You can help ease your child's anxiety about those icky shots.
Texas pediatrician Ari Brown, co-author of "Baby 411," says the first thing kids ask her is whether they need a shot. "I play dumb," she says. "I'll say, 'I don't know, I'll check the chart.' " Then she changes the topic.
Brown offers these tips for kids more than 6 months old:
Don't give your child too much warning. It'll only make him anxious for a longer period of time.
Distract her by telling a joke or making a silly face. For younger kids, blowing in their face can help take their mind off the moment.
Offer a reward. If you brought a snack, mention it just before the needle appears so he can focus on his treat instead.
Tips from the pediatrician
Give your child a pain reliever 30 minutes before the appointment.
Spray a vapo-coolant product on the skin before the injection. (Ask your doctor's office staff if they'll do this.)
Give your child a spoonful of sugar. The sweet taste can ease pain. For an older child, try lemonade or candy.
Apply a topical anesthetic cream to the skin an hour before the injection.
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