Miss Pat called the class to attention after the first bell rang. Just as the “Can Dos” were coming to attention the door opened and in walked Nurse Diane.

“Good morning, Miss Pat. Good morning children,” said Nurse Diane. Miss Pat greeted Nurse Diane and the “Can Dos’ all called out, “Good morning, Nurse Diane.”

Hector wasn’t really so happy to see Nurse Diane. He whispered in Willie’s ear, saying, “When Nurse Diane comes it means we have to hear medical stuff and do healthy activities like coughing in our elbows.” Willie smiled and whispered back,”Hector , you think you are so strong, but you are a baby sometimes!”

“Am not”, said Hector, “Are too” said Willie. Miss Pat called on them to share what they were talking about. “Nothing, answered Hector. Miss Pat answered. “Then talk about nothing quietly. The class laughed, and Nurse Diane began to talk about why she had come to their classroom..

 “It’s that time of year again; time to get a flu shot,” said Nurse Diane. A groan went up in the classroom. Some kids called out about how they hated getting a shot. Others shared that they were afraid of needles. Hector looked as if he didn’t feel well.

 Nurse Diane smiled and said, “Going to the doctor to get a shot doesn’t have to be scary. Here’s what you need to know about getting a shot so you can be brave at the doctor’s.

1. Shots are just a way to make sure your body has what it needs to fight off disease and keep you healthy. The small needle puts the medicine under your skin so your body can build up strength against diseases.
2. When the doctor or nurse sticks you with the needle it will hurt a little bit, but only for a minute and then the pain will go away.
3. If you’re nervous about getting your shot, talk to your parents about something else. It will help keep you calm and take your mind off the shot.
4. Smile. It’s hard to be scared or nervous if you’re smiling. So even if you’re really scared about getting the shot, just keep smiling and it will help you be brave.

The next time you go to the doctor to get a shot, you can surprise your parents and the nurses by staying calm and being brave.”

Nurse Diane  asked “Does anyone have any questions?” No one raised their hands. Hector was thinking about being brave when he got his flu shot. It sounded good when Nurse Diane said it, and after all, it would only take a minute. Hmm…it is worth a try he thought. I wouldn’t want anyone to think I was a big baby.

Source information: Kids.gov.