I had some good talking with the kids yesterday as vaccines start to be on the scene. We talked about how they weren't approved for kids yet (sorry), that they would go to the folks at the most risk first (important) and it probably wouldn't change our day to day for a while.

We also talked a little bit about the science behind the vaccines. Should we be nervous that they've come so quickly? (No, as @KYT_ThatsME explained, the bones of these mRNA vaccines had been in the works for many years). Should everyone get them? (Yes)

But we might have to wait a while because no one in our household is doing essential work or has super immunosuppression.

How long will the protection last? (We'll have to wait and see). Will we have to get them again (Maybe/probably).

When can we stop wearing masks? (Not for a while).

It was useful to talk about what they'd heard, and what they might be worried about.

They asked if the vaccines would hurt, or be dangerous. I reminded them about their last batch of vaccines - that these were similar, that sometimes you felt under the weather or sore but that was ok.

A lot of folks around the world have been brave through the several trial rounds of vaccines. I trust the many doctors and organizations who are moving ahead with vaccine rollout.

It still won't save us from this winter, but it means an end is in sight.

Also - please talk with your folks near and far about the coming vaccines. There are plenty of reasons why lots of people and communities might be vaccine hesitant. That's ok. Let's work together to protect each other.