Childhood Immunization

Vaccines are one of the most important tools we have to protect ourselves from serious illness. From birth through adolescence, staying on schedule with recommended immunizations helps keep your child, your family, and your community safe.

The Importance of Childhood Immunizations

Immunizations are a safe and effective way to prevent many potentially life-threatening diseases. Vaccines protect your child against illnesses such as measles, polio, whooping cough, rubella, and more. Many of these diseases were once widespread but are now rare in the U.S. due to routine vaccinations.

Although these illnesses may seem like a thing of the past, they haven’t disappeared. The viruses and bacteria that cause them still exist and can spread quickly, especially in communities with low vaccination rates. Some diseases can re-emerge when vaccination levels decline. Vaccinating your child not only protects them—it also helps protect others who may be too young or medically unable to receive vaccines. 

Following the Recommended Schedule

The childhood immunization schedule is carefully designed by medical experts from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). It’s based on years of research and is tailored to provide the best protection at the right age.

Young children are especially vulnerable to infections because their immune systems are still developing. That’s why many of the early vaccines are scheduled during the first 18 months of life. As your child grows, additional booster doses help reinforce protection.

Staying on schedule ensures your child is protected at the appropriate time and reduces the risk of gaps in immunity. Delaying or skipping vaccines can leave your child at greater risk for serious illness.

Your Pediatrician Is Your Partner

At every well-child visit, our pediatric team reviews your child’s immunization record and discusses any needed vaccines. We’re here to answer your questions, provide up-to-date information, and help make vaccination a smooth and stress-free process.

Below is a visual breakdown of the recommended vaccines by age. This printable chart is based on the most current CDC guidelines and includes all routine immunizations from birth through age 18.

Printable Childhood Vaccine Schedule