Doctors at Johns Hopkins Children's Center suggest ways to ease stress for children during COVID-19 vaccinations.

Every effort should be made to ensure that the vaccination procedure is not traumatic for the child, to prevent instilling a fear of pain. If the first shot goes smoothly, with minimal pain, the second shot will be easier. Children with chronic pain need special attention to prevent amplification of that pain.

Getting a COVID-19 vaccination can help protect a child from developing COVID-19 or from becoming seriously ill with the disease. Current information shows that the vaccines may also help stop people from spreading the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 to others. Help protect your entire family by getting yourself and your children age 12 and older vaccinated against COVID-19.

Get a COVID-19 vaccine for your child as soon as you can.

• The vaccines are safe and effective.
• Only the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine is currently approved for children age 12 and over.
• A second shot of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine is necessary three weeks after the first shot.

Vaccination Tips for Caregivers and Health Care Providers

1. Use an ointment or cooling spray. Apply over-the-counter pain-relieving lidocaine 4% ointment or a lidocaine patch at the site of the injection 30 minutes before vaccination, or use a cooling spray (vapocoolant) just before the shot.
2. Be honest and calm. Explain that the child may feel a little pinch, but that their job is to stay very still. Use words like “pressure” or “poke” rather than “pain” or “shot.” Support the child if he or she cries.
3. Find a comfortable position. The child should sit in a caregiver’s lap or sit next to a caregiver during the vaccination, and can continue for comfort during the 15 minute observation period.
4. Let the child hold a favorite item. Bring anything that is comforting, such as a favorite toy, stuffed animal, blanket or book, to help the child focus on something pleasant. Children often like to watch their favorite show or listen to favorite song during the injection.
5. Offer Choices: Learn from the child what they would like to do during the injection. Some children feel more in control if they can watch what the nurse is doing.
6. For many children, deep breaths are relaxing. Suggest blowing out a candle or blowing a bubble.
7. Provide care after the shot. Calm the child with hugs, cuddles and soft whispers.