I think every mother worries at least a little bit about getting their wee one vaccinated. We worry about the quick pain they’ll feel when the needle is inserted, we worry about how they’re going to react after, and most of all we worry that they’re feeling scared and in pain.
There’s not much we can do to avoid these worries, other than not have your child vaccinated, but I don’t personally think that’s the way to go.
I learned a couple of tricks along the way that I’d like to share, now that I’ve successfully lived through the 2, 4 and 6 month shots!
- Mix together a small bottle of 1/4 liquid honey and 3/4 water. Feed this to your baby with an eye dropper right before, during and right after he gets his shot. This doesn’t take the sting away, and he’ll probably still realize he got the shot, but it does distract baby quite nicely.
This worked wonders for me. My son barely cried at all during his 4 month needles! - Feeding your baby a little bit, whether it be breast or bottle, immediately after he receives the needle helps to calm the crying. The soothing feeling of sucking makes the little one instantly feel better.
- Baby Tylenol or Tempra is a great help in keeping possible fevers and achy legs in check. Depending on how old your child is, check the medicine bottle for instructions, give him the recommended amount before you leave to get the shot and then every 4 hours after that for the next 24 hours.
If your baby is going to have a reaction, it’ll be during this time. - CUDDLES. Your baby will most likely settle right down as soon as he’s in his mother’s arms.
We probably worry too much about this topic, but it’s not fun watching your child cry. I hope these tips come in handy!
