Prepping kids for the poke: Five ways to ease fear, anxiety before getting a vaccine

OHSU Doernbecher Child Life experts offer tips to help ensure your child’s appointment goes smoothly

By Tracy Brawley December 02, 2021 Portland, Oregon

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From left, Kyrah and Kingston Baker-Bryan and Alex Williams wait in the kids' lobby area after getting their COVID-19 vaccination on Tues., Nov. 9, 2021, at Doernbecher Children's Hospital. Children ages 5-11 are now eligible for the vaccine after it was approved by the CDC and other health authorities. (OHSU/Christine Torres Hicks)

Prepping kids for the poke 2

OHSU's Henry Lin places a bandage on Emma Nguyen's arm after she received her first COVID-19 vaccine. Her father, Lam Nguyen, looks on. (OHSU/Christine Torres Hicks)