Resources for Parents/Guardians

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Keeping children healthy and ready to learn starts with staying up to date on vaccines. While there are certain immunizations required for school entry, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) recommends that children receive all routinely recommended vaccines​ to ensure the best protection against serious diseases. Ensuring your child receives all recommended vaccines also means they will fully meet school and child care immunization requirements. This webpage provides parents with easy‑to‑use resources, guidance, and tools to help navigate school and child care immunization requirements and keep their children and school community safe and protected. 

About Immunizations:

Talk to your doctor about recommended vaccines for your child. View these resources for additional information.

• Recommended Immunization Schedules ​(PDF)
• Common Questions about Vaccines​​​
• Vaccine Information Statements by Vaccine
  
  

​​What’s the difference between “Required” and “Recommended” immunizations?

Some, but not all recommended childhood vaccines are required by California law and regulations in order to attend school. Under the California School Immunization Law (California Health and Safety Code, Sections 120325-120375), to protect the public’s health, children are required to receive certain immunizations in order to attend public and private elementary and secondary schools, child care centers, family day care homes, nursery schools, day nurseries and developmental centers.

Not all recommended immunizations are required for school, but it is still important that children receive all of them. Talk to your doctor about other recommended vaccines, including flu vaccine every year. 

What is the “recommended” immunization schedule? 

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommended schedule​ lists the age or age range when each vaccine or series of shots is recommended. 

What if I can’t afford vaccines or my insurance doesn’t cover them?

• The California Vaccines for Children (VFC)​ Program provides vaccines for eligible children at no cost. Find a VFC provider in your area using the locator.
• Underinsured children are eligible to receive VFC vaccine only through a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), or a Rural Health Clinic (RHC) under an approved deputization agreement.
• Many local health departments offer free or low-cost vaccines.
  
• Your local pharmacy may also give Tdap and other vaccines for a fee.