The CARD system (Comfort, Ask, Relax, Distract) provides groups of strategies that can be used before and during vaccination to make the experience a more positive one for you and your child. Learn how you and your child can play your cards to reduce the pain, stress and worries associated with vaccinations. To learn more about CARD, go to CardSystem.ca.
Find out how you as a parent or caregiver can use the CARD system to help both you and your child to have a better experience when they are getting a vaccination. How you act, what you say and what you do play a large role to promote coping and a more positive vaccination experience for your child.
There are also practical things you as a parent or caregiver can do to help your child cope during a vaccination. For example, you can use comfort positioning or numbing cream to help your child. Also, learn how to help your child if they feel faint or dizzy before or during a vaccination.
Download these resources so that you can help your child have a better vaccination experience:
CARD system activity for children
This handout provides information and strategies for children to use so they are more prepared and can have a better vaccination experience. There is space for your child to write down what strategies they want to use. Try cutting out the CARDs so that your child can 'play' them.
What parents and caregivers can say: Improving the vaccination experience
Learn about the importance of tailoring the amount of information you provide to your child depending on their needs and preference. Also, learn about using neutral language when talking to your child so that you don’t increase their level of fear.