Back-to-school time means focusing on that Vaccinations for children ahead of flu season – but the prospect of vaccinations can be frightening and anxious for many children.
According to CDC data, about two out of three children are very afraid of needles.
Evelyn Chan, pediatrician and CEO of Smileyscope in Californiasaid preparing a child before a vaccination or blood draw appointment can help ease anxiety and make the experience smoother.
MANY YOUNG CHILDREN ARE NOT RECEIVING ‘LIFE-SAVING' VACCINES, STUDY DISCOVERS: ‘REGARDING THE TREND'
She shared her top tips with Fox News Digital.
Steps to prepare children for recordings
The first step is to explain the procedure.
“Talk to your child in advance about what to expect if they get a vaccination or have their blood drawn,” Chan said. “Use age-appropriate language to describe the process and emphasize that it is a quick procedure to check their health.”
Evelyn Chan, a pediatrician and CEO of Smileyscope in California, said preparing a child before a vaccination or blood draw appointment can help ease anxiety and make the experience smoother. (Smileyscope/iStock)
Next, Chan said to distract the child and relax him.
She recommended engaging children in activities to distract them from the needle.
“This may include reading books, playing games or listening to music,” she said. “Deep breathing exercises or other relaxation techniques can also help reduce anxiety.”
During the process, be sure to offer positive reinforcement, encouragement, and praise, Chan suggested.
COVID VACCINATIONS ARE NOT REQUIRED FOR HEALTHY CHILDREN AND TEENAGERS, THE WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION SAYS
“Speak positively about the procedure – for example, remind them that it is an important step in maintaining their health.”
Working with your child's healthcare team is also key to reducing it Stress and anxiety.
According to CDC data, up to two out of three children have severe fears of needles. (iStock)
“Medical offices work with children every day on blood draws and needle procedures,” Chan said.
Ease back-to-school anxiety with these expert tips
“Many practices are equipped with techniques and even technology that can help ease a child’s anxiety, such as medical virtual reality devices.”
The “3 Ps” for minimizing pain
During the actual injection or blood draw, Chan uses the following pain-relieving tips, which she calls the “3 Ps”:
- Physical anesthesia: Chan recommends consulting with your doctor beforehand about whether using an anesthetic cream or cold pack is appropriate. “These can help numb the area before a vaccination or blood draw, thereby reducing pain,” she said.
- Positioning: Talk to yours health care provider that your child should be in a comfortable and safe position during a vaccination or blood draw, the doctor said. “This includes sitting upright, and they may want a secure, snuggly hold from you,” she said.
- Psychological techniques: “Positive engagement of the mind and senses can help reduce the perception of pain,” Chan said. Some ideas include engaging the children in conversation, playing their favorite music, or bringing a toy to take their attention away from the needle. Another tip is to encourage the child to breathe slowly and deeply during the process, which can help relax the body and distract from any discomfort.
During the actual injection or blood draw, Chan uses the following pain-relieving tips, which her practice calls the “3 Ps.” (iStock)
More tips to combat fear of needles
To prevent needle phobia and medical anxiety as your child gets older, Chan shared additional tips.
Parents preparing to go back to school urged to talk to their children about drugs: ‘wide-ranging impact'
“Seek out health care providers who have experience working with children and take a gentle approach,” she suggested. “Positive experiences with caring professionals can help ease anxiety and build trust.”
The doctor also emphasized the importance of open communication.
“Encourage your child to openly express their fears and concerns,” she said. “Provide reassurance, validate their feelings and actively listen. Be supportive and offer comfort at medical appointments.”
“Remember that every child is unique and it is important to tailor your approach to their individual needs and temperament,” Chan said. (iStock)
At home, she recommends engaging in role-playing games where you or your child can take on the role of a health care provider and practice procedures such as blood draws. “This can help familiarize them with the process and reduce anxiety,” she said.
Finally, Chan suggested introducing your child to medical environments and procedures gradually.
CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER
“If possible, start with less invasive experiences and gradually progress to more complex experiences,” she said. “This contact can help desensitize them to their fears over time.”
What not to do
Chan also pointed out some things that parents should avoid as they could make the situation worse.
- Minimize or dismiss fears: “Don’t downplay or minimize your child’s fears,” she said. “Acknowledge their feelings and offer support and reassurance.”
- Pretend there is no vaccination: Avoid misleading your child by pretending there is no vaccination during the appointment, the doctor said. “This can undermine trust and increase fear when they realize the truth.”
- Use of threats or bribes: “Avoid using threats or bribes to force your child to comply,” Chan said. “This can create a negative association with the procedure and further increase anxiety and fear.”
- Share negative experiences: Do not share negative stories or experiences related to vaccinations/blood draws, the doctor warned. “This can cause unnecessary anxiety and anticipation in your child,” she said.
“If your child's anxiety or fear persists or significantly impacts their well-being, you should consider seeking professional help from a pediatrician or child psychologist,” Chan said. (iStock)
“Remember that every child is unique and it is important to tailor your approach to their individual needs and temperament,” Chan concluded.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
“If your child’s fear or anxiety is persistent or significant affects their well-being“You should consider seeking professional help from a pediatrician or child psychologist.”
For more health articles, see www.foxnews/health
