Don't Be Afraid of Shots!
Many children (and some adults) have trypanophobia— the fear of needles. While understandable, it is certainly a problematic fear. It makes doctor’s visits stressful for everyone involved. It also makes it hard for the person with the fear to seek medical care.
To keep these fears from developing or worsening in your child, avoid joking about or threatening your child with a shot when they’re at the doctor. Put a fun spin on it for them! Don’t make shots a punishment, let them know shots are important to keep them from getting sick. Make the visit and the idea of shots fun! Tell your child that shots help to make their immune system strong like their favorite superhero!
