Vaccines are one of the most effective ways to protect children from serious illness and death. The CDC and AAP childhood immunization schedule is carefully designed to protect children at the ages when they are most vulnerable. At Spring Valley Pediatrics, we follow the full AAP-recommended schedule and are happy to discuss any questions you have about vaccines at your child’s well-child visit.
At Spring Valley Pediatrics, we aim to provide the highest level of medical care. This includes providing immunizations to all our patients to prevent dangerous and life-threatening illnesses. We follow the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) vaccine schedule which has been thoughtfully and thoroughly studied over decades. Below are some resources that provide scientifically accurate information on vaccines, vaccine safety, and explore some common parental concerns about vaccines.
- Here, the AAP discusses how decades of research guided the creation of our vaccine schedule specifically to protect children from diseases we are at risk for in the United States.
- At some well visits, your child may receive more than one vaccine. This article discusses why receiving multiple vaccines at once is safe and effective.
- On this page, find a list of the vaccines available in the US and read about the diseases they prevent.
- Some parents have questions or concerns about the safety of various vaccine ingredients. This website, run by the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, one of the premier Children’s hospitals in the US, explores vaccine ingredients, why they are used, and in what quantities.
- Here, the AAP presents evidence behind giving the Hepatitis B vaccine at birth and how it significantly reduces the risk of chronic Hepatitis B which can lead to liver failure, liver cancer, and even death.
- This article explains that there is no scientific link between vaccines and autism.
As always, all the physicians at Spring Valley Pediatrics are happy to answer any questions you have about vaccines and your child’s health!
Frequently Asked Questions About Childhood Vaccines
When should my baby start vaccinations?
Most babies begin receiving vaccinations shortly after birth. The first vaccines are typically given within the first few days or months of life, following the recommended immunization schedule from the American Academy of Pediatrics and the CDC.
These early vaccines help protect newborns from serious illnesses at a time when their immune systems are still developing. Your pediatrician will guide you through the schedule and make sure your baby stays up to date at each well-child visit.
At Spring Valley Pediatrics, we work closely with families in Spring Valley, Northwest DC, and near Bethesda to ensure infants receive timely, gentle preventive care from the very beginning.
Are childhood vaccines required for school in DC?
Yes — Washington, DC requires children to be vaccinated in order to attend public and most private schools, as well as childcare and preschool programs.
Required vaccines help protect not only your child, but also classmates and the broader community. Schools may request official immunization records before enrollment each year.
Spring Valley Pediatrics is happy to help families stay on track with DC school vaccine requirements and provide the necessary documentation when needed.
What vaccines does my child need before kindergarten?
Before starting kindergarten, children typically need several important vaccinations to ensure they are protected in a school environment.
These often include vaccines such as:
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DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis)
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MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
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Polio
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Varicella (chickenpox)
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Hepatitis B
Your child’s pediatrician will review their immunization history during well-child visits and make sure they are fully prepared for school entry.
We encourage parents in Northwest DC and Chevy Chase to schedule pre-kindergarten checkups early so everything is completed on time.
Can my child receive travel vaccines near Bethesda?
Yes — families living near Bethesda often have convenient access to pediatric travel immunizations through Spring Valley Pediatrics.
If your family is planning international travel, certain destinations may require additional vaccines or preventive recommendations for children.
Travel vaccines may depend on:
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your child’s age
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your travel location
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the length of your trip
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any special health considerations
Spring Valley Pediatrics offers travel immunization guidance for children in Spring Valley, Northwest DC, and nearby Maryland communities, helping families travel safely and confidently.
Are vaccines safe for infants?
Yes — vaccines are very safe for infants and are carefully studied before being approved for routine use.
Childhood vaccines are designed to protect babies from illnesses that can be especially dangerous early in life. The recommended vaccine schedule is based on extensive medical research and ongoing safety monitoring.
Most infants experience only mild side effects, such as temporary soreness or low-grade fever.
At Spring Valley Pediatrics, we understand that parents may have questions, and we take time to discuss vaccine safety, answer concerns, and support families with trusted, evidence-based care.
Have additional questions about vaccinations or your child’s immunization schedule? Our team is always here to help. Please contact Spring Valley Pediatrics to speak with your pediatric care provider.
