Follow these tips to help lay your toddlers’ fears to rest:
- Take it slow: Have unfamiliar friends and relatives say hello to your children while you hold them in your arms.
- Look and learn: Have them look at older kids sit calmly in the barber chair (and receive a lollipop at the end). This will prepare them for the experience
- Be honest: Don’t say that the shot won’t hurt, because it will. Instead, reassure your children that it’ll sting for only a moment and that they’ll be okay. You’ll send the message that they can handle the things that worry them
- Try a comfort object: such as a favorite doll or blanket. These can help reassure toddlers during moments of stress
- Have fun with it: Kids use play to master scary situations. A toy doctor’s kit can help your toddlers learn what to expect at checkups. Likewise, a stuffed animal can make dogs appear less frightening
