Cyrus was nervous to get his COVID-19 Pfizer vaccination, but with support from Larisa the nurse administering his vaccination, he's now looking forward to living life fully vaccinated. Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect you, your friends and your whānau. Ministry of Health video.
What you can do before your child's COVID-19 vaccine appointment
- give your child encouragement and keep them relaxed
- make sure your child has had something to eat and drink
- check your child is wearing clothes that make it easy to see and access their upper arm
If they're a little nervous, they're welcome to take something to the appointment that will distract them, like a phone or some music.
Talking to your child about having the COVID-19 vaccine
In the video below, paediatrician Dr Teuila Percival says it's best to be open and transparent with tamariki about the COVID-19 vaccination. Explain to your child why they're having a vaccine and what to expect.
In the following video, registered psychologist Paul Prangley gives advice on how parents and caregivers can talk to their tamariki about being immunised against COVID-19.
Resources on helping prepare for a COVID-19 vaccine appointment
The Immunisation Advisory Centre has tips to help prepare for your COVID-19 vaccine appointment.
The Hospital Play Specialist Associations have a 1 page handout on immunisation support. Your will find some helpful suggestions for parents and whānau of older tamariki.
Supporting tamariki with a disability have their COVID-19 vaccine
Many people, including those with intellectual disabilities and those on the autism spectrum may show signs of anxiety when it comes to injections and needles. Healthcare NZ has a a resource to help you support your child or young person with autism or another disability through the immunisation process.
Amaze Australia, in partnership with National Disability Services, have developed social scripts that outline the process of getting a COVID-19 vaccination to people with autism.
People with autism may find the process of getting the vaccination stressful. These social scripts provide them with an opportunity to prepare themselves for their vaccination and reduce anxiety. Anyone who is feeling anxious about the process of getting a COVID-19 vaccination can use and benefit from the resources.
Australians with Down syndrome say why they got the COVID-19 vaccine
Down Syndrome Australia recently asked Australians with Down syndrome why they got the COVID-19 vaccine, and why they think everyone else should too.
Getting help during your child's COVID-19 vaccine appointment
If you book through Book My Vaccine, you can request assistance during your appointment.
This can include:
- an NZSL interpreter
- support to make decisions
- assistance to move around
- a longer appointment time
- a quiet or low-sensory environment
- more space to move around
You can book a vaccine online or over the phone. See the Health New Zealand website for different ways to book your vaccine. If you book through Book My Vaccine, you can request assistance during your appointment.
The disability team is available Monday to Friday, from 8am to 8pm. They will support your whānau and can book an immunisation appointment for you. They can answer any questions you may have about your child's needs including accessibility, free transport options, or any affects the vaccine may have on your child.
- call 0800 28 29 26 and push 2
- free text 8988
- email accessiblecovidvaccinations@whakarongorau.nz
