It’s hard to believe that in just a few weeks, my entire family will be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. The last couple of years have been a rollercoaster—emotionally draining and physically exhausting. Working from home while juggling my kids’ virtual schooling, all while worrying about our health has been quite the challenge.
Now that our youngest is eight, the moment we’ve been waiting for is finally here. I remember the overwhelming relief we felt last April when my husband, our oldest, and I became eligible. But with two younger kids still waiting for their shots, we were on edge.
Now, that wait is over. By Christmas, our family of five—who stayed home for a year, ordering groceries online and avoiding restaurants—will finally be protected. The gratitude and relief I feel is beyond words, and I know I’m not alone. However, this exciting news about the COVID vaccine for kids aged 5 and up isn’t without its challenges. There are parents co-parenting with those who have fallen down the anti-vax rabbit hole, insisting they know more than medical professionals.
Many of us have friends or family still spewing conspiracy theories, which sadly affect their children. While we celebrate our kids receiving this life-saving vaccine, we also feel compassion for kids stuck in households influenced by misinformation.
Today, we shout a big “Yay science!” despite the lingering negativity. Knowing our kids are protected is the silver lining amid all the chaos. We can’t share our excitement publicly for fear of backlash from certain anti-vax family members, but our eldest received his first dose yesterday, and we couldn’t be happier. Come on science, let’s get our little one vaccinated too so we can return to some version of normalcy!
Confession Time
My six-year-old got their shot yesterday and was treated like a rock star! I’m so grateful to the Department of Health. My daughter will get her shot in less than two weeks, and I can’t wait to celebrate. It’s time to party!
On the flip side, my husband screamed at me in front of our kids, accusing me of trying to harm them because I want them vaccinated. He barely has a high school diploma but thinks he knows better than doctors and scientists. It’s disheartening to see the man I married become someone I no longer recognize. I’m seriously contemplating how to keep my plans for the kids’ shots a secret from him—maybe a puppy as a bribe?
If you find yourself co-parenting with an anti-vaxxer, my heart goes out to you. It’s frustrating when actual medical experts provide research-backed information, yet someone down the street insists they’ve done their own “research” and your partner believes them.
I’m all for the vaccine relationship cull. If you don’t care about my kids’ health, I don’t value that relationship. Honestly, anti-vaxxers should be held accountable if their children suffer from preventable diseases. I have family members who have manipulated their kids into believing wild conspiracy theories—it’s infuriating to think how that affects their understanding of serious illnesses.
Ultimately, the rollout of the COVID vaccine for ages 5-11 brings a mix of emotions. Yes, we’re thrilled—thank you, science! But the loud voices of conspiracy theorists are exhausting. While we inch closer to normal life, it’s a little daunting to think about returning to the social scene after avoiding it for almost two years.
If you’re making plans to get your kids vaccinated, soak in that relief and joy—don’t let the negativity dampen your spirits. Vaccines save lives, and today millions of kids can access this essential health resource, which is always worth celebrating!
Additional Resources
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Summary
The arrival of COVID vaccines for kids has brought mixed emotions for parents. While many are excited about safeguarding their children, concerns about misinformation and anti-vax sentiments linger. As families navigate these challenges, the hope for a return to normalcy shines through.
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