Children often are afraid of getting shots, so it can be difficult for healthcare providers and parents to get them on board with vaccines — a topic of concern as the U.S. recently laid out its plan to vaccinate children ages 5-11 against COVID-19.
Below are four tips for communicating about COVID-19 vaccines with young children, according to an Oct. 25 CNN report.
- Briefly describe step by step what children can expect when they get a vaccine.
- Listen to and empathize with children's concerns about vaccines.
- Encourage children to write a list of questions they can ask their nurse or physician at the appointment.
- Let children know they can bring items such as a stuffed animal or book to the appointment to make them more comfortable.