What Vaccines Does My Child Need at Their 4-Year Checkup?
The 4-year well-child visit is one of the most important checkups in early childhood. It happens right before most kids start kindergarten, and it includes several key vaccines that will protect them through the school years. Here's what to expect.
Vaccines Typically Given at Age 4
At the 4-year visit, the CDC and American Academy of Pediatrics recommend the following vaccines (these are booster doses of vaccines your child started as an infant):
DTaP — Protects against diphtheria, tetanus, and whooping cough (pertussis)
IPV — Protects against polio
MMR — Protects against measles, mumps, and rubella
Varicella — Protects against chickenpox
Your child may also receive the flu vaccine if it's flu season or if they're due for their annual shot.
What Else Happens at the 4-Year Visit?
Beyond vaccines, the 4-year checkup includes a lot:
Height, weight, and BMI check
Blood pressure measurement
Vision and hearing screening
Developmental assessment — talking, social skills, motor abilities
Questions about school readiness, sleep, screen time, and behavior
A chance for you to bring up any concerns before kindergarten
Is My Child Required to Have These Vaccines to Start Kindergarten?
In Iowa, children are required to have certain vaccines to attend school, though medical and religious exemptions exist. Getting your child up to date before the school year starts makes the transition much smoother — and protects classmates who can't be vaccinated for medical reasons.
My Child Is Nervous About Shots. Any Tips?
This is very common. Be honest with your child — don't say it won't hurt at all, but do reassure them it will be quick. Bring a comfort item. Let them know it's okay to cry. And plan something fun for afterward. Our team is great with nervous kids — we'll go at their pace.
Questions about your child's health? Call Burds Family Practice in Peosta at (563) 588-6659 or visit burdsfamilypractice.com to request an appointment. We're here for your family.