The Childhood Vaccine Schedule: Why It Matters

Updated 3/5/2026

Protecting our children from preventable diseases is a top priority for every parent. Vaccines are one of the most powerful tools we have to achieve this, and the recommended childhood vaccine schedule provides a roadmap for giving children the best protection at the right times.

Moses F. Olorunnisola, M.D., a pediatrician with Hackensack Meridian Medical Group in Forked River, helps us explore why early vaccination is crucial, how the schedule is developed and what to expect before and after your child's appointments.

Child Vaccination Schedule

Our expert doctors recommend following the childhood vaccine schedule from the American Academy of Pediatrics (APA).

This schedule has been proven safe and effective for decades. 

Why Vaccinate Early?

You've just welcomed your tiny, fragile newborn into the world, and the thought of giving them a shot might seem daunting. But that's precisely why vaccines are so important. A baby's immune system is still developing and can't fully fight off diseases on its own. Vaccines provide crucial support, helping them build the defenses they need.

"I get asked, ‘Why are we injecting my baby’s little immune system with all these things?’” says Dr. Olorunnisola. “The short answer is their immune system is not developed yet; so if your child gets sick at that age, the likelihood of them having a severe infection is high.”

Babies have some antibodies from their mothers, but this protection fades over time. The vaccine schedule helps babies build their own "immune army" as they grow and are exposed to more germs.

A Flexible Approach

Doctors understand that parents have questions and concerns.

"When a parent tells me ‘I don’t want to do all these vaccines for my child today,’ I’m not going to say, ‘You need to do it this way or else,’” says Dr. Olorunnisola. “But I am going to provide them information on what I know works, and this childhood vaccine schedule has been designed and studied over the years to offer maximum protection from diseases.”

Keeping Up With the Latest Science

The vaccine schedule isn't set in stone: it is updated as scientists learn more. For example, some vaccines that once required separate shots are now conveniently combined into one.

In January 2026, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated its recommendations, which has created some confusion for parents.

Most importantly, these changes were not made due to any new safety concerns. 

No vaccines were removed from the schedule; rather, they were recategorized as:

• “Universally recommended”: vaccines every child should get
• “For high-risk groups”: vaccines recommended only for certain kids who may have a greater chance of getting sick from a particular disease
• “Shared clinical decision making”: Parents and their child’s doctor should work together to discuss the risks of a specific vaccine for their child

Hackensack Meridian Health continues to follow the vaccine schedule from the APA. This schedule is designed to give kids the best protection at the right times.

For a full breakdown of the 2026 CDC update, what it means for school requirements and why our doctors still recommend comprehensive vaccination, read our full article here.

Getting Ready for Vaccine Day: Tips for Parents and Kids

Here's how to prepare your child (and yourself) for vaccinations:

Before the appointment

• Don't pretreat: Resist the urge to give pain relievers like acetaminophen before the shot. This can actually make the vaccine less effective.

"That actually lowers immune response to the vaccine, when you want your child to be able to build a bigger, stronger defense," explains Dr. Olorunnisola.

After the appointment

• Ice pack: If the injection site is sore, an ice pack can help.
• Fever: A low-grade fever is normal. If your child seems comfortable, you don't need to treat it. If they're uncomfortable, talk to your doctor.

“If your child develops a fever but they’re still comfortable, let it ride,” Dr. Olorunnisola says, “and if not, you and your pediatrician can treat that on an individual basis.”

For Nervous Parents

It's okay to feel nervous. Here's what you can do:

• Talk to your doctor: Your pediatrician is your best resource for information and support, especially when it comes to navigating the latest schedule updates.
• Read the APA’s FAQ page: This resource explains why the CDC made changes and the safety and importance of vaccination. Reviewing the facts can help calm any nerves.
• Identify your fears: What specifically are you worried about? Understanding your fears can help you address them.

A Doctor's Perspective

"I see what a lot of these diseases have done to kids, so the last thing I want is for your child to be sick from a disease that could’ve been prevented," says Dr. Olorunnisola. "I have kids of my own, and I’m not going to offer something to your child that I don’t believe in."

Remember, doctors want what's best for your child. They're here to answer your questions and help you make informed decisions. 

Next Steps & Resources: 

• Meet our source: Moses F. Olorunnisola, M.D. 
• Make an appointment online to discuss vaccines with a pediatrician near you, or call 800-822-8905.
• Learn more about Hackensack Meridian Children’s Health.
• Find more information on parent vaccine decision-making. 
• Watch our podcast on Navigating the Noise on Pediatric Vaccines.