With August being National Immunization Awareness Month and flu season approaching, now is the perfect time to talk with children about getting their vaccinations. While the odds are that most kids — and adults — don’t welcome the experience of getting shots to protect their health, the importance of getting scheduled childhood vaccinations and yearly boosters for the flu can’t be overstated. However, if your little one is still feeling a bit anxious about facing down the needle, these children’s books on vaccinations may help to settle their nerves.
Baby Medical School: Vaccines by Cara Florance and Jon Florance
As most parents and caregivers know, childhood immunizations ideally start early and tend to follow a schedule into kids’ teen years. As such, learning about upcoming vaccinations and why they are necessary can help children prepare for getting their shots. This sweet and straightforward board book breaks down the basics of vaccinations — what they do, how they work, etc. — with adorable, illustrated characters and kid-friendly language.
Thank You, Dr. Salk!: The Scientist Who Beat Polio and Healed the World by Dean Robbins, Illustrated by Mike Dutton
One of the greatest medical advancements of the 20th century, Jonas Salk’s polio vaccination saved countless lives and helped dramatically curb the spread of the debilitating disease. Yet his story started as a shy child in New York City who was deeply influenced by the Jewish concept of tikkun olam, or “healing the world.” A gentle yet powerful look at the life and work of Salk, this fascinating biography does a wonderful job of showing young readers the power of a vaccine and of Salk’s selflessness.
A Vaccine Is Like a Memory by Rajani LaRocca, Illustrated by Kathleen Marcotte
Written by primary care physician LaRocca, this captivating title begins with a brilliantly simplified explanation of how vaccines work via the titular phrase. From there, readers are taken back to the origins of vaccinations, beginning with the centuries-long efforts to develop an inoculation against smallpox. From there, modern vaccine research, herd immunity, and information on specific diseases are detailed, providing kids with an in-depth yet accessible look at why those prickly shots are so vital.
The Secret Life of Viruses: Incredible Science Facts about Germs, Vaccines, and What You Can Do to Stay Healthy by Mariona Tolosa Sisteré and the Ellas Educan Collective
Packed with fun facts and gross-out illustrations, this translated Spanish import covers much of the same ground as A Vaccine Is Like a Memory, but with a tone that will appeal to kiddos who love a bit of yuck in their science. Providing info on how viruses spread, how the immune system interacts with them, and what role they play in the global ecosystem, readers can get an informative overview that not only covers the need-to-know, but also the fun-to-learn.
Dr. Fauci: How a Boy from Brooklyn Became America’s Doctor by Kate Messner, Illustrated by Alexandra Bye
As a boy, little Anthony had an insatiable curiosity for the world around him. Covering Fauci’s early life and career in a series of impactful moments and themes, the story paints a picture of how “America’s doctor” developed his passions for medicine and helping people in a way that is brisk yet engaging enough for young readers. Even better, backmatter includes information on vaccines and a message from Fauci himself encouraging young scientists.
Vaccines Change the World by Gillian King-Cargile, Illustrated by Sandie Sonke
Geared toward middle-grade readers, this brief history of vaccination research, development, and global impact is a compelling introduction to the field of virology. From smallpox variolation to the cutting edge of mRNA vaccines to prevent the spread of COVID, curious youngsters can trace humanity’s quest to fight against diseases via scientific cooperation. Compelling, approachable text is paired with both illustrations and historical images, adding depth and visual interest to this timely subject.
Three Ways to Be Brave: A Trio of Stories by Karla Clark, Illustrated by Jeff Östberg
Okay, the science of vaccinations is covered — but what if that doesn’t make them feel any less scary? In this empowering anthology, readers follow three young protagonists as they are faced with a common childhood fear, including immunization. Critically, each story emphasizes that there is nothing wrong with feeling afraid; while the child getting vaccinated cries and panics, the reader is assured that these are not marks of failure, but of the fact that they were brave enough to try something scary in the first place.
We hope that you and your young readers enjoy these books and that they help your kiddos head to their neighborhood clinic or doctor’s office with a little more confidence come vaccination time. Happy reading!
Looking for more books that explore the world of STEM and the people who contribute to it? Check out our article on Fascinating Picture Books That Celebrate Women and Girls in STEM!
To see all of our recommendations for mini bookworms, check out our Bookshop bookshelf.
