Book Review : I Hate Shots
Indeed vaccines and shots are an indispensable part of every individual growing up. To address such a fundamental yet binding concern in such a remarkable way is possible only by someone who has firsthand experience and expertise. Our author, Dr. Laurie Zelinger, is a seasoned child psychologist. She is commendable in her presentation of this general medical procedure. The facts related to it, the fears associated with it, and the means of manipulating it to ease a child's interaction with needles, be it shots, blood tests, or vaccines.
Now, by the year-end of 2021, we can, with one accord, acknowledge how vaccines have become a strong shield for the human community. We now understand that Epidemics and Pandemics can prevail and mutilate a large portion of society within months, let alone days. In such situations, vaccination and testing are our only hope to remain healthy and continue life!
Please Explain Vaccines to Me Because I HATE SHOTS! is thorough guidance to preparing your kid to overcome her fears for a vaccine. Not only does it present a reassuring story for the child to rhyme along, but it also brings forth helpful tips for the elders. And some much-needed advice to prepare you and your kids for such an apparent and ongoing necessity.
Moreover, how the author approaches the subject in the book is compelling and ideal. After all, a rhyme-like narrative propped by illustrations is bound to capture the attention of a child! It helps the child understand the problem on hand and appreciate and perhaps try out the solutions offered.
By addressing the child's fear, Dr. Zelinger is also preparing the parent/caregiver by helping her interpret the intimidation of needles and playing an active role in making the medical visits comfortable and cooperative. Some of her tips are, addressing the fear rather than avoiding it, pretend play, and distraction at the time of the shot. Indeed, practical approaches.
Finally, she says that it is essential for the parent to "remain calm and reassuring." Kids are very observant and quick to pick up cues from adults. If the parent is anxious and worried, it will further stress the child - We couldn't agree more with this reflection!
This book harbors the secrets to change, how young minds manifest words like jab and shots. It stays alongside parents and caregivers so that they can hold the hands of their little ones in a way that is informative and hopeful. No wonder we highly recommend this book for every child and adult who wants to make this journey a smooth ride.
Please Explain Vaccines to Me Because I HATE SHOTS! Review
Children will: Identify with the main character and her fear of shots; Enjoy the colorful illustrations and happy story ending; Learn coping mechanisms to deal with frightening situations; Feel supported by their parents who will know how to help; Reduce their anxiety and become more cooperative during medical visits. While Parents and Caregivers will: Understand the reasoning behind the fear of injections; Learn strategies to help their child before and during a medical visit; Be better able to comfort their child.
James A. Cox, Editor-in-Chief Midwest Book Review
Dr. Laurie Zelinger has done it again with another excellent child and parent friendly book that helps to allay fears and empower families and professionals with the tools to help children develop healthy coping skills. I Hate Shots addresses the very real and all-too-common fear of injections. This book has it all: a relatable and simple yet engaging text in rhyme that is fun to read aloud, as well as colorful illustrations that provide an honest and relatable depiction of the emotions involved. It includes a detailed parent guide providing clear cut science-based strategies to assist all caregivers.
As an experienced nurse and health educator, I see I Hate Shots as a “must have” resource for all caregivers, educators and health professionals.
Darlene Glasser, RN, MSEd
Disclaimer:
This article and the opinions expressed in it are personal opinions. It is not meant for imposing specific views or endorsing a particular way of life. Also please do ignore any errors or omissions that you might come across. We pledge to learn from them. Happy viewing.
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