How To Prepare an Anxious Child for Their First Ear Piercing

Ear piercing can (and should!) be a fun, exciting experience for kids, but it’s normal to have mixed emotions - including excitement and nerves. Here’s how you can help your child have the best ear piercing experience possible!

 

1. Prepare Your Child Ahead of Time

 

One of the most effective ways to help calm your child’s pre-piercing jitters is talking to them about the process ahead of time. Walking them through what to expect and answering any questions they may have while reassuring them that you’ll be with them the entire time can do wonders for easing anxiety.  

If you don’t know what to say, here’s a quick & easy way to share more about the ear piercing experience.

How do you do with shots? Ear piercing is even easier. Most shots go into the muscle and have a medicine that may burn or sting a little. Your earrings will just go into the skin which is softer than muscle. And the best part is, you leave with earrings instead of a bandaid!

It’s also important to remind your child that they are in control. This is not something they’re being forced to do, rather, it’s something they want to do - and something that you want to do with them! Let them know that fear and nerves are normal, but they will feel so proud when they overcome those feelings with bravery!

2. Choose the Right Time

 

Choosing the right time to get your child's ears pierced is perhaps the most important part of the puzzle. Try to avoid times when your child is typically tired, hungry, or irritable. For example, if your child naps every afternoon, schedule the appointment for the morning instead. For the best experience possible, scheduling the appointment when your child is well-rested, fed, and in a good mood will help make the experience a fun one!

If your child has a cold, fighting an infection, or feeling under the weather, you may want to reschedule for a time when they’re feeling better.

 

3. Bring a Comfort Object

 

Have your child bring their favorite stuffed animal or other comfort item with them to their appointment. Not only does this give them something to hold on to, but it will help them feel secure and safe.  

 

4. Distraction, Distraction, Distraction!

 

Distraction techniques can make all the difference during your appointment. Items such as a tablet or even a phone with a favorite show playing can be very effective in calming down nerves. Our piercing nurses love to talk with kids as well and hear about their favorite things, which is a great way to distract them in the piercing chair while keeping their heads steady.

 

5. Practice Deep Breathing

 

Practice deep breathing with your child before the appointment to help them feel more comfortable, and encourage your child to take deep breaths before and during the piercing process can help to reduce anxiety. 

 

6. Be Ready to Celebrate

 

Be prepared to celebrate! Lots of cheers and praise will be given, as well as a certificate of bravery, stickers, and lollipops to commemorate the moment. 

Getting your ears pierced for the first time is a milestone you’ll remember for a lifetime!  When your child is ready for their first ear piercings, come see our incredible piercing nurses and get ready to have the safest and most celebratory ear-piercing experience available!