In this special episode of Ear Snacks, Andrew & Polly explore what kids know (and don’t know) about the COVID-19 vaccine now available in the U.S. for children age 5-11. We share a hilarious pie analogy from Laurel Bristow (MSc, Control of Infectious Diseases) and visit with Child Life Specialist Rose Tandeta (UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland) about ways families can navigate the emotions around any trip to the doctor’s office.
Thanks to our friends Twyla, Dash, Ani, Izzy, Eliana, Quinn, Cora, and Jane (and their parents!) for sharing what they know (and don’t know) about vaccines. If you want to try similar conversations with your family, we’ve included the Q&A each of these friends responded to with their grown-ups at the bottom of this post — have great conversations!
Here at Ear Snacks we love learning and sharing, and we hope all of our immune systems can learn how to keep our bodies healthy (and not share crazy pies with our neighbors!) Please support the work we do by sharing this episode and joining us at patreon.com/earsnacks -- spread analogies, not viruses!
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VACCINES Q&A
What’s a shot?
What is a vaccine?
What are some other words you have heard that also mean vaccine?
Have you ever had a vaccine?
Who gives you a vaccine?
Where do you go to get a vaccine?
What’s your immune system?
Do you know… how does a vaccine work?
What feelings do you have before you go to get a vaccine?
What does it feel like while you are getting a vaccine?
How long does it take to get a vaccine?
What does it feel like after you get a vaccine?
Do you remember when you got a vaccine when you were… 3?
What about when you were a baby, do you remember getting any vaccines then?
Do you think you’ll get any more vaccines?
Any plans about any new vaccines coming up?
Why do you think people get vaccinated?
Do animals get vaccinated?
Why do you think some animals get vaccinated?
If your friend was going to get a vaccine, what words do you think would help them feel calm about it?
Is there anything you haven’t been able to do during the pandemic that you think you’ll be able to do after you get your COVID-19 vaccine?
What are you excited about for when kids are able to get the COVID-19 vaccine?