My children just turned five years old, and that means another well check up.  I was pretty sure that my children had a vaccination due during that visit (it was my daddy senses).  Since I don't want to be someone that does not take their own advice, I asked my doctor's office to run me through the vaccination process my children would experience.  Now, I'll be the first to admit that I felt a little foolish.  Let's face it, how many parents are asking this question?  Still, I wanted to make sure I was preparing my children with the correct information.

Here's the amazing thing, the doctor's office was great.  They transferred me to talk to a nurse, and got the ball rolling.  I told them that I wanted to be able to prepare my children in advance for their vaccinations, and that they had a rough time with their flu shots.  The nurse completely understood, and even pulled their medical records to give me the most accurate information possible. 

I was informed that my children would need three separate vaccinations, and they would need to be given in three different injections.  Then I asked her to explain what would happen during the actually event.  She explained the process, the equipment, and site (in the thigh), and even took the time to answer my questions.  It was all of the information that I needed to prepare them for the injections.

The first time you ask for this information, you will probably feel absurd.  However, remember that you are the advocate for your child, and if you can find out some information that will help their experience, then you will.  So, please know that this is a successful step, and you should feel empowered to gain the necessary information to prepare your child.  Besides, the only information you need is just a phone call away.