lumie's lessons in action
how to interact with
easy-breezy shots!
This guide walks you through Lumie’s Lessons of healthy habits presented in Easy-Breezy Shots! These parent tips will help you best prepare your child for getting a shot at the doctor.
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As you read through the book, keep an eye out for these little stars in the illustrations (some may be hidden!) Each star highlights a Lumie’s Lesson related to a healthy habit. Use these stars as a fun way to spark conversation and connect the story to big learning moments. How many stars can you and your child find?
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Want a hint? Click HERE for the answer key!
distraction in action
Distractions can be a simple but powerful tool to ease your child’s worries during the visit. A silly song or a game of “I Spy” shifts their focus away from fear and back to having fun. Small moments of play create calm, making shots feel less scary and a lot more manageable - for everyone!
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Before you know it, the shot is a breeze!
validate your child's fears
​​Everyone gets scared about different things. At this moment, your child is afraid of getting a shot. Validate their feelings. When children feel heard, they feel safe, understood, and confident expressing themselves. Help your child recognize and process their emotions:
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Normalize their feelings: Reassure your child it is normal to be scared.​
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Show empathy: Be vulnerable. Share how you can feel scared too.
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Withhold judgment: Do not minimize their feelings. Avoid saying “Stop crying.” Crying is a healthy way to express emotion.
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imagine a happy place!
Imagining a happy place calms the body and mind.​Help your child relax in a scary situation by using their imagination.
Step 1: Have your child close their eyes.
Step 2: Ask your child to name their happy place. Be prepared with suggestions.
Step 3: What are they doing in their happy place?
Step 4: Ask them to describe details using their senses. What do they see, hear, taste, smell and feel?
Step 5: When they are ready, have them slowly open their eyes.
support & shine
Your support means the world to your child, especially during situations that feel unfamiliar or scary. When you offer calm reassurance, you build connection and help your child feel secure.
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Children often mirror the energy of the adults around them. When you stay calm and grounded, your child is more likely to do the same.
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Grow your team! A favorite stuffed animal can serve as a support toy to help your child feel at ease. Trusted role models, like teachers, coaches, or family members, can also play a meaningful role in offering support.
practice makes perfect
Use imitative play to help your child know what to expect and alleviate any fears. Encourage your child to play doctor at home with their favorite stuffed animal or you! Guide your child through the steps of getting a shot to reduce their fear of the unknown and help them feel more comfortable.
embrace teachable moments
Everyday moments offer opportunities to teach your child. Use these interactions to build a strong foundation for lifelong healthy choices.
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When talking with your child about shots, offer a kid-friendly explanation to explain the benefits. For example, getting a shot is like putting on an invisible shield. You cannot see it, but it protects their body from germs.
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power of choice
When possible, allow your child to choose between two acceptable options to give them an active role during the visit. Letting them make small choices
helps them feel empowered.
For example, let your child choose which arm to use for their blood pressure check. This simple choice gives them a sense of control and helps them feel at ease during the visit. Even small decisions can make a big difference in helping your child feel safe and confident at the doctor’s office.
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celebrate the effort
When the shot is over - Praise! Praise! Praise! Let your child know how proud you are. As a reward, consider special time together. Try reading an extra book at bedtime or enjoying bonus playtime. If you have our sticker chart, add a big sticker! However you choose to do it, make sure to reward their bravery and best effort.
