Crossposted from Public Health Insider

Summer may have the longest days of the year, but they always seem to go by the fastest. With the new school year just a few weeks away, now is a great time to make sure your child has the vaccinations they’ll need. Not only are vaccines required for school and childcare, they’re also among the best tools to help your child stay healthy and thrive, this year and beyond.

Start with your healthcare provider

If your child has a doctor, we recommend getting ahead of the crowd and making an appointment now. As the new school year gets closer, appointments often book up quickly. You can use this opportunity to also talk with your child’s doctor about any other health concerns, get a general wellness check, or complete a sports physical. Some healthcare providers offer vaccination-only visits if you’re pressed for time or have no other healthcare needs.

In Washington state, all children ages 0 to 18 can get vaccinated at no cost from a healthcare provider that participates in the Childhood Vaccine Program (CVP). Your healthcare provider might charge an administration fee (a fee for giving the vaccine), but you can ask to have it waived if you can’t afford it. Find a CVP provider near you. Read more.