Your child’s first vaccines – what you need to know
23rd July 2018
Taking your child to have their first injections can be a thing of nightmares but this need not be the case. Take a step back and know what to be prepared for so that their injections aren’t such a scary and emotional time. From making your very first appointment to understanding what injections your child requires, we will cover all you need to know.
Make the appointment
When your child is due a vaccination, you will receive a letter in the post. This will either be at your local GP’s practice or at a child’s health clinic. Once you receive the letter you must take note of the time and date. If you, for any circumstance, can’t attend this day, get in touch to rearrange another.
Remember: your child must have certain vaccinations by a certain age, so be sure follow their vaccination calendar.
Take your Personal Child Health Record book with you
A little time after your child is born, you will be provided with a ‘red book’ usually called a Personal Child Health Record, but referred to as the ‘PCHR’. This is for you to bring along with you every time your child visits your local GP or baby clinic. In this, your doctors and nurses will record their weight, height and take note of all vaccinations that your child has been given.
Dress them in sensible clothing
Save time and make the entire process effortless when you dress your child sensibly. Simple, basic clothing such as a light cotton t-shirt for children having arm injections and thin cotton popper fastened clothing for babies under 12 months, as they will most likely have injections in the thigh.
Be on time
Don’t rush to get to the appointment on time, chances are, this will cause unwanted stress to both your child and yourself. Getting there on time will keep you both calm and will make a trip to the doctors a breeze.
Be calm
It may seem impossible, but it’s important you stay calm during the vaccination; the last thing you want is for your child to feel uncomfortable or in pain during their injections. Vaccinations are often painless and if your child is calm, it will be even less of a story because their muscles will be relaxed, making their injections nice and easy.
Hold your child when they have their injection
To keep the visit as normal as possible, have your child sit on your lap and hold them whilst they have their vaccination – most children won’t even realise that it has happened. However, should your child be anxious and be prone to fainting – ask your doctor to have them lie down to keep them safe.
Understand what allergies are involved
Before your child has their vaccinations, your doctor or nurse will ask you if your child has any bad reactions or allergies – be sure to let them know.
What happens when you miss a vaccination?
You will not have to start over again, simply make a new appointment and don’t forget to attend this one.
Although it may feel like your child has turned into a pin cushion, they are provided to ensure their welfare. Their injections include:
- 6-in-1 vaccine
- Pneumococcal or pneumo jab
- Rotavirus vaccine
- Rotavirus vaccine
- Men B vaccine
- Hib/Men C vaccine
- MMR vaccine
- Children’s flu vaccine
- 4-in-1 pre-school booster
- HPV vaccine (girls only)
- 3-in-1 teenage booster
- MenACWY vaccine
Here at Tiny World Day Nursery, we have countless years of experience caring for babies and children. If you’re looking for excellent daycare and advice, find our nurseries in Nottingham and Mansfield on Stockhill Lane, Arnold Road and Layton Avenue and take a tour of our buildings today!