Skip to content

Talking with your child about the COVID vaccine

Health care workers answer questions about the COVID-19 vaccines.

Shaquita Bell, MD on talking with your child about getting the COVID vaccine.
So going to get the vaccine together is this wonderful opportunity to have a conversation, to discuss why you’re doing it, to talk about how my belief system for instance is that I’m not only doing something for myself, I’m doing something for my family and I’m doing something even bigger for my community. So, there’s things that we do that don’t just benefit us, that benefit everybody we come into contact with. So, you could have a conversation like, “We’re all going to go get this vaccine so we can visit grandma or grandpa,” or, “We’re going to all go get this vaccine so that your cousin can come and spend the night and play and be safe.” Those are the really neat opportunities of getting vaccinated as a family is you can have those conversations and help kids understand, “Why do I have to get a poke? And why, why, why is this important? And how is it going to protect things? And how is it going to change my life?”

This information is shared for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. The views expressed are those of the featured medical professional and reflect information available to that professional at time of filming. Always consult a health care provider for any personal health decisions. Click here for vaccine FAQs from the CDC.

Stay up to date with your COVID vaccine, including boosters!

COVID vaccines are safe and effective for everyone ages 6 months and older.

Immunity wanes over time. Keep up your protection against COVID by getting boosted when eligible.

Updated boosters are available for adults and children 6 months and older. 

FIND FREE COVID VACCINES & BOOSTERS