How Parents Can Help Their Children Through a Fear of Needles

Fear of needles and shots is a common concern among children, adolescents, and even adults. It often causes significant stress and anxiety during medical procedures. As a parent, witnessing your child’s distress can be overwhelming. But with the right strategies and support, you can help them with being afraid of needles and make the experience of getting a shot more manageable. In this guide, we’ll explore practical techniques and innovative solutions (including cold spray for injections and numbing cream for shots) to assist parents in comforting their children during needle-related procedures and help you learn how to make shots hurt less for your child.

Understanding the Fear of Needles

Fear of needles, or needle phobia, affects as many as  68% of children aged 6 to 8 years, 65% of children aged 9 to 12 years, and 51% of children aged 13 to 17 years.¹ This fear can manifest in various ways, from mild discomfort to severe anxiety. It may persist into adulthood if left unaddressed.² It’s essential for parents to recognize the signs of needle phobia and take proactive steps to support their children through the process.

If your child is afraid of needles, preparing them for vaccinations or blood draws is crucial for minimizing their anxiety and promoting a positive experience. Take the time to explain the upcoming procedure to your child in age-appropriate language. Provide information about what to expect during the appointment, including the purpose of the shot and how it will help keep them healthy. For example, if you have a child around 5 years old, you could say: “When we visit the doctor, you’ll get a shot. It’s like a special medicine that helps keep you healthy by helping your body recognize bad germs you don’t want to get sick with. They’re little pokes that might hurt for a minute, but it’s quick. I’ll be there to help you, and we can think of something to do together to take our minds off it. What do you think will help?”

In addition, consider the following strategies:

• Address their concerns: Encourage your child to express any fears or concerns they may have about getting a shot. Listen attentively and validate their emotions, reassuring them that feeling nervous is normal.
• Practice relaxation techniques: Teach your child relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises or progressive muscle relaxation to help them stay calm during the procedure.³
• Try role-playing: This can be facilitated by using dolls, stuffed animals, or pretend medical kits to simulate the experience, providing children with a sense of control and mastery over the situation while also fostering a sense of empowerment and confidence.

During the appointment, your support and reassurance are essential in helping your child manage their fear of needles and shots. Here are some ways to provide comfort:

• Physical comfort: Discuss pain management options with your healthcare provider, such as numbing cream for shots or cold spray for injections, to minimize discomfort during the procedure.³
• Distraction techniques: Engage your child in activities or conversation to distract them from the needle. Bring their favorite toy, book, or electronic device to occupy their attention during the appointment.
• Emotional support: Offer words of encouragement and praise for your child’s bravery during the procedure. Remind them that you’re proud of them for facing their fear and taking care of their health.

Minimizing pain and discomfort during needle-related procedures can greatly improve your child’s experience. By using the following approaches, you can help them learn how to get over their fear of needles and potentially make shots hurt less:

• Use numbing cream: Apply numbing cream to the injection site before the procedure to reduce pain and discomfort.³ Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for proper application and timing.
• Optimize positioning: Ensure your child is in a comfortable position during the appointment. Depending on the type of shot, they may prefer to sit upright, lie down, or even hold a specific position to minimize discomfort.
• Try a distraction technique: Engage your child in a favorite activity or conversation to engage them during the injection. Some children find deep breathing or blowing bubbles very helpful. Others like to bring their favorite toy, book, or electronic device to help distract them and reduce their anxiety.

Unfortunately, while trying to help our children cope with these difficult visits, some of our efforts may end up making the situation worse. Some things to avoid when prepping for needle and shot procedures include:

• Minimizing or dismissing fears: Don’t downplay or ignore their fears. Acknowledge their feelings and seek support and guidance to address them effectively.
• Pretending there won’t be a vaccination: Avoid misleading your child by pretending there won’t be a vaccination or blood draw during the appointment. Honesty is crucial for managing anxiety effectively.
• Using threats or bribes: Refrain from using threats or bribery to force them into compliance. If they’re afraid of needles, such tactics can increase fear and make the experience more distressing.
• Sharing negative experiences: Avoid sharing negative stories or experiences related to vaccinations or blood draws with yourself or others. This can heighten unnecessary anxiety and anticipation for your child.

Advancements in technology offer promising solutions for addressing needle-related anxiety in children. Consider exploring the following options:

• Medical virtual reality: Some healthcare facilities offer virtual reality experiences designed to distract and comfort children during medical procedures. These immersive devices, such as Smileyscope, can reduce patient pain (by 60%) and anxiety (by 40%) during needle procedures.⁴
• Child life specialists: Many hospitals employ child life specialists trained to support children and families during medical procedures. These professionals can provide age-appropriate explanations, emotional support, and coping strategies to help children feel more comfortable.

By implementing these strategies and providing unwavering support, you can help your child overcome their fear of needles and navigate medical procedures with greater ease. Remember, each child is unique, so be patient and flexible in finding what works best for your child. With your guidance and encouragement, they can learn to cope with being afraid of needles and face medical procedures with courage and resilience. We can empower our children to conquer their fears and prioritize their health and well-being.