Needle Hub - Helping Children Feel Calm and in Control
Getting a blood test or needle can make some children feel nervous and that’s completely normal. At Children’s Health Ireland, we want to make every visit as comfortable as possible. This page brings together helpful tips, resources, and downloadable guides for parents and children to help take the worry out of needles.
Download our guidance below
Ábhar an leathanaigh
Ar an leathanach seo gheobhaidh tú eolas faoi:
🏥 Before you come to hospital - Tips and Tricks
A few small steps can make a big difference:
- Encourage your child to drink plenty of water (if allowed) — it helps veins show up more easily.
- Keep your child’s body warm before the test by wearing a jumper or coat.
- Bring along a comfort buddy like a teddy or favourite toy.
- Talk about what will happen in a calm and simple way.
💉 Types of needle procedures
Understanding what will happen helps children feel in control.
Learn more about:
- Blood tests – to check how the body is working
- Cannulas (Freddie, drip or IV line) – for giving medicine or fluids
- Injections – quick needles for medicine or vaccines
- Finger prick tests – tiny samples for checking blood sugar
🗣️ Speaking to your child about needles
Honest, simple language helps build trust. Try saying:
“You might feel a quick pinch or sting, but it’ll be over fast.”
You can also:
- Give your child choices where possible (see My Needle Plan below).
- Practice coping skills like blowing bubbles, slow breathing, or imagining a favourite place.
- Let the hospital team know if your child is especially nervous.
✍️ My needle plan
Every child is different, this fun, fill-in-together plan helps your child decide:
- How they’d like to sit
- Whether to use numbing spray
- What distractions work best
- What they want their grown-up to do during the test
💛 Need more support?
If your child finds needle procedures very difficult, talk to your healthcare team. There’s always more we can do to support you. contact@childrenshealthireland.ie
Additional Information
Download Activity Colour Sheet