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:
What is CARD for parents and caregivers
This handout provides information to parents and caregivers on how they can use the CARD system strategies so they and their child are more prepared for their child’s vaccination.
CARD system handout 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.
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.
CARD system handout for teens
This handout provides information and strategies for teens to use so they are more prepared and can have a better vaccination experience. There is space for your teen to write down what strategies they want to use.
How parents and caregivers can act: Improving the vaccination experience
Learn what to say and what not to say to help maintain a calm and positive environment for your child before and during vaccination. Also, learn about the importance of being positive.
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.
What parents and caregivers can do: Improving the vaccination experience
Learn about the importance of inviting your child to participate in their vaccination experience and of answering their questions.