Helping Kids Cope With Needles: The Science Behind Buzzy

In this episode of Inside the Children's Hospital Podcast, Katie Taylor sits down with Dr. Amy Baxter, pediatric emergency physician, researcher, inventor of Buzzy®, and founder of Pain Care Labs, to explore how childhood experiences with needles can shape a lifetime of healthcare interactions—and what parents and healthcare professionals can do to help.

After watching her own son develop a fear of needles despite her expertise in pediatric pain management, Dr. Baxter began researching why children experience pain differently and how simple, evidence-based strategies can reduce pain during vaccines, blood draws, IV placements, port access, and other medical procedures. Her work ultimately led to the invention of Buzzy®, a device now used by families and healthcare professionals around the world.

Katie and Dr. Baxter discuss the science behind pain, why multiple painful procedures can have a lasting impact on children, and how connection, preparation, and developmentally appropriate support can help children build confidence instead of fear. They also share practical strategies parents can use during medical procedures, the role of child life specialists, and why helping children feel safe matters just as much as reducing physical pain.

Whether you're preparing your child for routine vaccines, navigating frequent hospital visits, supporting a child with a chronic medical condition, or caring for pediatric patients, this episode offers compassionate, research-informed insights that can help make medical experiences less overwhelming for children and families.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

Why children develop pain memories from medical procedures

Reducing pain during vaccines, blood draws, IVs, and port access

The research behind Buzzy® and vibration therapy

Helping children feel safe during medical procedures

Child life strategies that support coping and resilience

The importance of caregiver connection during painful procedures

Developmentally appropriate preparation and distraction techniques