Preparing for Vaccines
Why is this Important?
Vaccination can be a stressful experience for both children and caregivers. However, your emotional support can turn this process into a more comfortable experience. When you remain calm and confident, children feel safe and less afraid. Proper preparation and support not only help your child cope with vaccinations, but also foster a positive attitude toward medical procedures in the future. This is an investment in your child’s long-term emotional well-being.
What to know
Fear of vaccination is a natural reaction, especially in children. It’s important to understand that your role as a caregiver is not to eliminate this fear, but to help your child manage it.
Children of different ages require different approaches:
Infants respond well to physical contact and soothing voices.
Preschoolers benefit from simple explanations and distractions.
Older children need honest answers to their questions and an understanding of the procedure’s importance.
Your emotional preparation is equally important. Children are very sensitive to their parents’ emotional states. If you stay calm and confident, your child is more likely to remain calm as well.
Remember, crying during the procedure is normal. It doesn’t mean you’re a bad parent or that you didn’t prepare well. It’s a natural reaction that passes quickly with the right support.
What Actions to Take
1.
Preparing for Vaccination
☐ Gather all necessary information about the vaccine by talking to the pediatrician, reading trustworthy sources, etc.
☐ Understanding the process will make you feel more confident. Read more about how to prepare and gather more information about vaccinations here.
☐ Dress your child in comfortable clothes that are easy to remove—this reduces stress during the procedure.
☐ Bring your child’s favorite toy or blanket—this can help them feel distracted and comforted.
☐ Help older children understand the benefits of vaccines. Explain this calmly and lovingly.
☐ Be honest: explain that it may feel a little uncomfortable but will pass quickly.
☐ Avoid sharing “scary stories” or threatening your child with injections.
2.
On Vaccination Day
☐ Hold your child calmly and confidently to create a sense of safety.
☐ Speak to your child in a gentle voice, sing their favorite song, or tell them an interesting story.
☐ Help distract your child: show them a colorful toy, give them their favorite stuffed animal or blanket, play a favorite cartoon on your phone, or point out something interesting in the room.
☐ Smile and make eye contact—your calmness will reassure your child.
☐ Remember: If your child cries, this is normal. Support them and don’t scold them for their tears.
☐ After the jab, immediately hug your child and praise their bravery. You can offer breastfeeding or a bottle to an infant.
Before leaving, ask the doctor about:
☐ Approved pain relief medications.
☐ Additional home care recommendations.
3.
After Vaccination
Monitor your child for any reactions to the vaccine. Remember that most vaccine reactions are normal and medical attention is not required.
Normal reactions might include:
A possible temperature increase up to 38.5°C within the first two days—this is a natural immune response as the body builds protection against disease
Pain, redness, itching, burning, or swelling at the injection site—these reactions are normal for 1–2 days. A hard lump may persist for several weeks
Your child may be sleepier than usual or, on the contrary, more restless
Your child might feel discomfort and be fussy—hug them and stay close
If you notice any of the above reactions, try the following to help your child at home:
Ensure adequate hydration: breastfeed more frequently or offer water.
Avoid overheating: dress your child in light clothing and don’t swaddle or overdress them.
Ease pain at the injection site: apply a cold, damp compress.Reduce fever or pain: give paracetamol according to the package instructions (avoid acetylsalicylic acid—aspirin).
If you notice any of the above reactions, try the following to help your child at home:
Ensure adequate hydration: breastfeed more frequently or offer water.
Avoid overheating: dress your child in light clothing and don’t swaddle or overdress them.
Ease pain at the injection site: apply a cold, damp compress.
Reduce fever or pain: give paracetamol according to the package instructions (avoid acetylsalicylic acid—aspirin).
Key Resources
