With schools heading back next week and the NSW Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant saying COVID cases are set to surge again as a result of packed classrooms, more parents are considering the options of getting kids vaccinated.

For our family, the decision was a fairly easy one. First of all, I and my family are pro-vaccine. I trust the science and my kids have had all their other immunisations so to get another one that will increase the protection not only to them but also to our older grandparents and other members of the community was a bit of a no brainer.

I admit I put more thought into this vaccine than others, largely based on concern driven by media hype, however, I realised that there was a far greater risk of them having a bad dose of COVID than a reaction to the jab, both of which were small, and it was in my instinct to do all I can to protect my kids.

Similarly, I have had family and friends who were quick to make the decision, yes, some based on their kids having health issues including asthma and diabetes so they have been looking to further protect their children.

After making the decision, it turned out to be an even simpler process than I could have expected.

After hearing of major delays and lack of supplies I immediately assumed getting my 6-year-old twins vaccinated would be as difficult as getting my own jab however, I was pleasantly surprised.

Monday, Jan 3rd I ran my local GP fully expecting my kids to go on a waiting list until at least mid-February, however, was surprised to find there was plenty of availability.

A few minutes later the boys were booked in for their jabs just over a week later, on my preferred day, a day after their birthday! 

After telling my neighbour, a few days later she too tried to book. She was told the practice was no longer taking phone bookings and she needed to check online.

A morning search left her feeling disappointed however another crack in the afternoon and her kids were booked in and vaccinated on Tuesday just a day after the rollout began.

While some regions are experiencing difficulties in bookings, it is worth persisting and getting your kids in if you are keen to see them vaccinated with at least one dose before school starts.

As for the process? It was completely stress-free for my boys.

Their immunisation nurse who they have known for years gave them the vaccine, I had already done my research and made my decision and after a mild pin-prick, a brief TV break after the vaccine, we were off for the rest of the day.

I gave my boys preventative panadol that night and they slept with no issues.

The next day one complained of a slightly sore arm in the morning and was a bit tired but they were both back to their bouncy selves by lunchtime less than 24 hours after the vaccine...and in their words, now with new superpowers!

The vaccine rollout for 5-11 year-olds commenced on Monday, January 10 and to date, around 34 per cent of the eligible population have received their first dose.

The gap between vaccines is 8 weeks through your GP however there are reports some pharmacies and clinics are shortening that time frame.

With school kicking off in days and the government expecting another surge in COVID-19 cases as a result if you are considering getting your child vaccinated, now may just be the time to jump online or on the phone and lock in an appointment.