Distraction during procedures

What is distraction?

Distraction is a helpful tool that parents, caregivers and medical professionals can use during procedures that may be upsetting for children, such as COVID-19 vaccinations or other immunizations.

Distraction can help children have a more positive experience, feel less scared about future procedures and make the experience more pleasant for everyone involved.

Distraction ideas for parents and caregivers

Before your child has a procedure that could be upsetting, think about activities that might help distract them. You may want to include these strategies in a Coping Plan.

Here are some ideas to get you started:

Babies and toddlers

• Blow bubbles (if the clinic says it is okay to do so).
• Bring a light-up or musical toy and use it at the exact moment of the procedure.
• Bring a pinwheel toy and blow on it to make it spin.
• If your baby is breastfeeding, breastfeed them before, during and after the immunization. This can help distract your baby and reduce pain during the procedure.
• Use a pop-up picture book or finger puppet toy.

Younger children

• Say a funny word on the count of three, right when the procedure happens. For example: "1, 2, 3, hippopotamus!"
• Build an imaginary pizza or sundae. Ask your child what toppings they would like to add.
• Think of a word for each letter of the alphabet.
• Play "I spy" using items around the room.
• Watch a funny animal video on a tablet or phone.
• Play a game of "Would you rather?" For example, "Would you rather have pizza or lasagna?" or "Would you rather have a cat or a dog?"

Older kids

• Ask your child to list the ingredients in their favourite food.
• Ask them to tell you a funny joke.
• Think of a word for each letter of the alphabet. Challenge them to come up with the biggest, longest or weirdest word they can think of for each letter.
• Play a game on a tablet or phone.
• Talk about a fun activity you're going to do together after the procedure.
• Use your imagination and plan a pretend vacation. Where would you go? What would you do?

Quick tips

Try these simple distraction activities to help your child feel more comfortable during a procedure.