How to Talk to Your Kids About the Vaccine

Keep in mind that kids take their emotional cues from adults

“Children understand better if we are direct and speak truths to them at their level. Before talking to your children about COVID-19 vaccines, it is important that you understand them yourself.”

Children understand better if we are direct and speak truths to them at their level. Before talking to your children about COVID-19 vaccines, it is important that you understand them yourself. A great place to start is viewing valid sources such as Dr. Mike Varshavski who can be found on Youtube. Keep in mind that kids take their emotional cues from adults, so even if you are worried for your little one knowing that they might be uncomfortable, try not to overshare your fears with your child. Play can be a helpful tool for working through difficult emotions with younger children. If your little one seems anxious, try drawing together or exploring his/her feelings through pretend play.

Here are some kid-friendly responses to keep in your back pocket for questions your child may have about COVID-19 vaccines:

What is a vaccine?

A vaccine is like a shield that protects you from an illness.

How do vaccines work?

Vaccines teach your body how to fight off illnesses. They do that by putting a tiny piece of the germ that causes the illness you need protection from (or something that looks like the germ) inside your body, so your body can learn what it needs to do to fight it off. This way if you ever come into contact with the illness your body knows exactly what to do, which stops you from getting sick.

Are vaccines safe?

Yes, vaccines are very safe! Millions of children (and adults!) get vaccinated every year, which helps protect them from lots of diseases. When we get a vaccine, we might get a temperature or some aches, but this doesn’t last long and is many times better than getting sick from the illness. These signs also show that the vaccine is working and that your body is building up the protection it needs to fight the disease.

Stay connected to Hearts and The Family for more updates.