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Parenting advice for easing anxiety over shots

December 10, 2009 by James Dunsford Leave a Comment

They’re a necessary evil that most parents know all too well. Shots help keep our kids healthy but often cause a lot of fear, anxiety and tears. With many children getting flu and H1N1 vaccinations now, here are some parenting advice tips for easing the anxiety of the dreaded needle.

Some children know as soon as they get to the doctor’s office what lies ahead for them. The best advice is to talk to your kids about what’s going to happen before you arrive. Avoid telling them about the shots too far in advance, though, since they can worry even more if they have the opportunity to.

Fathers should be honest with their kids about the vaccines. Explain that they need them to be healthy and that the prick only hurts for a second. Many parenting experts say it’s a good idea to let your child feel in control of the situation by choosing what arm they want the shot in or picking out a special band-aid for afterwards. Remember that children can pick up on their parents’ anxiety. If you’re nervous, they will be too!

MyOptimumHealth.com suggests using distraction tactics like singing or blowing bubbles to ease your child’s anxiety. For older kids, telling a joke often helps them forget about the pain.

Planning a special treat for after the shot may help as well. A special day with dad may be a great reason for your child to be brave.ADNFCR-1662-ID-19487451-ADNFCR

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Great Dad Talks
Great Dad Talks

Great Dad Talks is a series of conversations with experts on all aspects of the family adventure. With the perspective that “dads don’t always think like moms,” our mission is to support dad voices and our slightly different approaches to parenting. We’ll try to find solutions to every day challenges like getting kids off the couch and making STEM classes available for both boys and girls. But we’ll also tackle bigger issues when they come. The one main theme will be to support dads in the most important role of their lives that of being a great dad. Connect with us at greatdad.com and watch the video version of these podcasts at YouTube.com/greatdadnews

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Check out Dr. Marcus’ website at parentrx.org

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– GreatDad.com/coaching 

– GreatDad.com/pq 

– Gratitude course: bit.ly/3NMLDNC  

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