School Age Children

School-Aged Children (3-10 years)

Your child is headed to school! It might be their first preschool experience, or maybe they are old pros in elementary school. You may be wondering how your child grew up so fast! As they grow, you can help them stay healthy with nutritious food, exercise, and immunizations.

Below, you will find information about school-aged immunizations. Also, look at the school requirements and the childhood immunization schedule. 

Immunizing your School-Aged Child

Congratulations! Your child has received many vaccinations that have helped build immunity to several diseases. As they enter school, more immunizations are required. Visit your healthcare provider to see what is recommended for your child’s age. The healthcare provider can make sure that their immunizations are up to date.

Your child may be afraid to get vaccines, but they are still important. Remember, the shot only takes a moment, but the disease could cause a lot more pain in the long run!

To Prepare Yourself

• Bring your child’s immunization record to the visit with you.
• Know what vaccines your child should be getting.

Tips that Help Your School-Aged Child

Honesty
Be honest about upcoming shots. Don’t say there isn’t going to be a shot when there will be one.

Fast and Painless
Try not to let your child stall; anxiety builds and can create more fear in your child.

Deep Breath
Keep your cool. If you are stressed, your child will pick up on it.

Control
If it’s okay with your doctor, allow your child to choose the site for injection (left or right arm) to give your child a sense of control.

Distractions
Consider bringing a favorite book or toy for the younger ones. For the older children, talk about their school day, a favorite movie, or see if they can listen to their music.

Post-Shot Treats
If you promise a treat after the shot, make sure you deliver on the promise, no matter how poorly it goes.

Reminders
Remind them that the doctor or nurse gives shots “really fast.” Have them think about how fast it was the last time they had a shot.