By Nina Gonzalez, MD, co-founder of Hello Brave
As a kid, and now as a parent to a child in elementary school, I’ve always enjoyed back to school season. A new school year brings the promise of new experiences, friendships, and memories. But there’s one part that I dreaded as a child, and now I dread just as much as a parent - back to school vaccines. As a doctor and public health specialist, I am a big fan of vaccines and what they’ve done to reduce morbidity and mortality in children and adults around the world. That said, as a mom, I feel bad putting my boys through each shot.
One thing that has helped me and my boys is to explain the why. I feel better helping them understand that there’s an important reason to endure the procedure. And they feel better knowing what’s happening to their body. Of course, there are other ways to help reduce fear and anxiety during medical procedures. If you haven't read it yet, check out our blog “Understanding and Easing Your Child’s Pain During Medical Procedures: A Guide for Parents” for additional tips.
For this post, I’m going to share some ways that you can try explaining vaccines to your child that are clear, straightforward, and reassuring.
What is a Vaccine?
Start by explaining that a vaccine is a special kind of medicine that helps the body learn how to protect itself from certain diseases. You can tell your child that just like their body needs food and water to grow strong, it also needs vaccines to help it fight off germs that can make them sick.
How Do Vaccines Work?
Next, you can explain how the body fights off infections. Our bodies have a defense system called the immune system. This system works by recognizing when germs, like viruses or bacteria, enter the body. When it finds these germs, the immune system tries to get rid of them so we don't get sick.
Vaccines help the immune system by teaching it how to recognize and fight off specific germs before they can cause illness. The vaccine contains a tiny, harmless piece of the germ that can’t make your child sick. When your child gets a vaccine, their immune system practices fighting off this small piece. It learns and remembers how to protect against the real germ if it ever shows up.
You might say something like: “When you get a vaccine, your body practices how to fight off a bad germ. This way, if the real germ ever tries to make you sick, your body already knows how to fight it off quickly.”
Why Do We Need Vaccines?
Children might ask why they need vaccines if they feel healthy. Explain that even though they feel good now, there are some germs that can make them very sick if they catch them. Vaccines help prevent these illnesses before they can even start.
You can explain it this way: “Just like we wear a coat to keep warm before going out in the cold, getting a vaccine protects you from getting sick before you’re ever around the germ.”
Addressing Fears About Needles
It’s common for kids to be afraid of shots. Acknowledge that it’s okay to be nervous and that the shot might hurt, but only for a few seconds. Let them know that the quick pinch is worth it because it helps keep them healthy for a long time.
You can add: “I know shots aren’t fun, but they’re really quick, and they help keep you from getting sick. After the shot, your body will be even stronger and ready to fight off germs!”
Reassure and Support
Finally, reassure your child that getting vaccines is something everyone does to stay healthy. You might even mention that you get vaccines too, and that it’s a normal part of growing up.
“I’m so proud of you for being brave and taking care of your body by getting your vaccine. This is something we all do to make sure we stay healthy and strong.”
Conclusion
By explaining the basic physiology behind vaccines in a simple and supportive way, you can help your child understand why vaccines are so important. This knowledge can make them feel more empowered and less anxious about the process, making the experience smoother for both of you. Remember, your calm and confident attitude will go a long way in helping your child feel the same.
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