The vaccination lasts only a few seconds, but for a child, this moment can cause anxiety, tears, and even form a distrust of doctors in the future. To make a visit to a healthcare facility less stressful, it is important to prepare in advance, both for adults and children.
Start with yourself: read reliable information about vaccination, prepare questions for the doctor, and go to the vaccination with confidence. Children are sensitive to the emotional state of their parents, so your calm behavior is the key to their trust.
It is advisable to bring a favorite toy, book, or other item that will help your child feel safe. This can become a reliable support in an unfamiliar environment.
Talk to your child frankly but positively. Avoid intimidation or threats such as: “If you don't obey, we'll take you for a shot”. Instead, explain that the vaccine protects them from dangerous diseases and that the shot may hurt a little, but it will pass quickly.
Additional support can be provided by other family members - older siblings, grandparents - who can share their experiences or simply hug and encourage.
Do not pass on your own fears to your child. The way you talk about medicine shapes their perception of it for years to come. A calm atmosphere, a warm word and parental support will make vaccination not only a safe but also a trusting experience.
All preventive vaccinations for children according to the calendar in Ukraine are provided free of charge, at the expense of the state budget. Information on the available number of vaccines in health care facilities in Donetsk Oblast can be found on the website of the Donetsk Regional Center for Public Health at the link
SE “DONETSK RECPC OF THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH”