As conversations around childhood health become increasingly polarized, it’s more important than ever for parents to have access to clear, balanced, and transparent information from trusted voices—especially when it comes to something as personal and important as vaccines.
Advocates for Healthy Kids aims to be a trusted voice for parents, along with a family’s healthcare provider or pediatrician.
The childhood vaccine schedule outlines a series of immunizations children are expected to receive from birth through adolescence. But for many families, keeping track of it all can feel overwhelming. And for those who want to make informed, independent choices about what goes into their child’s body, it can be difficult to find information that is trusted and isn’t politicized or dismissive of parental concerns.
That’s why we’re here.
This post isn’t about telling you what to do. It’s about helping you understand what’s recommended, why it matters, and how to stay informed—so you can make the best decision for your child and your family.
What’s Included in the Standard Vaccine Schedule?
The CDC’s schedule includes dozens of doses across a child’s first 18 years. Below is a general overview of the most common childhood vaccines, organized by age group:
Infants and Toddlers (0–2 years old)
- Hepatitis B (HepB)
- Given at birth, 1–2 months, and 6–18 months
- Protects against: Liver infection spread through blood or body fluids
- Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP)
- 2, 4, 6 months, 15–18 months, 4–6 years
- Protects against: Respiratory and nerve-related illnesses
- Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)
- 2, 4, 6 months, 12–15 months
- Protects against: Meningitis and pneumonia
- Polio (IPV)
- 2, 4, 6–18 months, 4–6 years
- Protects against: Paralysis-causing virus
- Pneumococcal (PCV13)
- 2, 4, 6 months, 12–15 months
- Protects against: Ear infections, meningitis, pneumonia
- Rotavirus (RV)
- 2, 4, possibly 6 months
- Protects against: Severe diarrhea and vomiting
- MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
- 12–15 months, 4–6 years
- Protects against: Viral infections with serious complications
- Varicella (Chickenpox)
- 12–15 months, 4–6 years
- Protects against: Skin rash and flu-like illness
- Hepatitis A (HepA)
- First dose at 12–23 months, second dose 6 months later
- Protects against: Liver disease spread through contaminated food/water
Older Children & Teens (6+ years old)
- Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
- 11–12 years
- HPV (Human Papillomavirus)
- 11–12 years (two doses)
- Meningococcal (MenACWY)
- 11–12 years, booster at 16
- Influenza
- Every year starting at 6 months
What’s Missing From the Conversation?
Many government and public health resources emphasize the benefits of vaccines—but far fewer discuss the nuances, such as:
- Potential risks and side effects, which are listed in Vaccine Information Statements (VIS) and required by law to be provided by the administering practitioner, but rarely discussed openly.
- Alternative spacing schedules that some families prefer based on a child’s unique health history.
- Questions about ingredients, including aluminum, polysorbate 80, or human cell lines, which are often dismissed rather than addressed.
- The rapid expansion of the schedule over the last few decades, raising valid concerns for some parents about long-term impact.
A growing number of pediatricians now support informed consent and individualized approaches, especially for children with autoimmune conditions, allergies, or complex medical backgrounds. Parents deserve to ask questions—without being shut down or shamed.
How to Stay Informed—Without Being Overwhelmed
Whether you vaccinate on schedule, delay, skip, or selectively immunize, knowledge is power. Here’s how to get it:
- Talk to your child’s doctor—but also trust your gut
A great pediatrician will listen to your concerns and help you weigh risks and benefits without pressure. If yours doesn’t? It’s okay to find a new one. - Stay updated on policy changes
Vaccine schedules and recommendations evolve. New additions (like RSV and COVID-19) are already being introduced. You can monitor updates via through the government or independent medical organizations. - Know your rights
Vaccine requirements vary by state, and many offer medical, religious, or philosophical exemptions. This state-by-state guide outlines what’s allowed where you live.
Why This Matters
Vaccines are often framed as all-or-nothing. But for many parents, the truth lies somewhere in between. You can believe in science and still want transparency. You can protect your child’s health and still ask tough questions. You can support public health and still demand informed consent.
At Advocates for Healthy Kids, we’re not here to tell you what to do. We’re here to fight for your right to make those decisions—with honesty, clarity, and respect.
Because no one cares more about your child than you do.