At a certain age, your child knows they're headed to the doctor and headed for a much dreaded shot. For many it can be a traumatic experience. Today, Parents Ask expert Dr. Bonnie Zucker, Psy.D, author of Anxiety-Free Kids: An Interactive Guide for Parents & Children, answers this common question and concern:

Q: What is the best way to prepare my child for getting a shot? Any tips for parents on how to make this a stress-free experience and soothe anxieties?

A: Many children are terrified of going to the doctor and getting shots. Understandably, they don't like to be poked and prodded, and certainly don't like needles pushed into them! However, going to these appointments is non-negotiable, and there are several things parents can do to ease their child's suffering. First, parents should start by empathizing with their child's fear and reassuring him or her that the anticipatory anxiety is the worst part. Comments like, "Honey, I understand that you feel scared, and that's okay. But you know it always seems worse than it is." Then, parents can remind children that most of the appointment is non-intrusive and won't hurt. Setting up a "reward" following the visit can be positive and help to distract many children. It can be going to toystore and picking one thing out, or going for ice cream, etc.
 
For children who fear shots, I recommend doing "practice" shots at home several days before the appointment. Using an alcohol wipe on your arm, your child can pinch your skin to mimic the brief pain that accompanies a shot. After doing this a few times, you should then practice giving your child the shot. This back-and-forth practice tends to help desensitize your child to the situation, and the sensory aspects of the shot itself (e.g., cool alcohol swipe, pinch, sting). Another recommendation is to teach your child a technique called Progressive Muscle Relaxation in which you tighten and hold then release and relax each different muslce group in your body. Starting with the hands, have your child make a tight fist and hold it for about 10 seconds, then release. Each time the muslces are relaxed, point out to your child how muscles feel different when they are tense or relaxed. Follow with having them tighten then release their arms, shoulders, back, stomach, buttocks, legs, and feet. Then do one "whole body" tension ("tighten everything and become a robot") then completely relax and let go ("become a ragdoll").  This will not only help your child relax his or her muslces, but it will distract your child during the doctor's appointment.