Garfield County Kindergarten Roundups!

Hepatitis B Vaccine for Children: What Parents Need to Know

The Hepatitis B vaccine is one of the first and most important protections your child receives—often within the first 24 hours of life. At Castle Valley Children’s Clinic, we follow guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) to ensure your child is protected from serious disease as early as possible.

What is Hepatitis B?

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver and can lead to both short-term illness and long-term complications such as cirrhosis and liver cancer.

According to the AAP Hepatitis B vaccine guidance, infants are especially at risk of developing chronic infection if exposed early in life.

Why is the Hepatitis B Vaccine Given at Birth?

The AAP recommends that all newborns receive their first dose within 24 hours of birth. This timing is critical because:

• Infants are more likely to develop lifelong infection
• Early infection often has no symptoms
• Chronic Hepatitis B can cause severe liver damage

Hepatitis B Vaccine Schedule

The vaccine is given in a 3-dose series:

• Birth: Within 24 hours
• 1–2 Months: Second dose
• 6–18 Months: Final dose

For a full breakdown of vaccine timing, visit the
Vaccination Series main page.

How the Vaccine Works

The Hepatitis B vaccine uses a non-infectious component of the virus to train the immune system to recognize and fight it. This allows your child to build long-term protection without exposure to the disease itself.

Is the Hepatitis B Vaccine Safe?

Yes. The Hepatitis B vaccine has been studied extensively and is considered safe and effective. The AAP confirms vaccine safety through decades of research and monitoring.

Common Side Effects

• Mild soreness at injection site
• Low-grade fever
• Temporary fussiness

Serious side effects are extremely rare.

Who Should Receive the Hepatitis B Vaccine?

The AAP recommends this vaccine for all infants, children, and adolescents who have not yet been vaccinated.

This is especially important for families receiving care at our New Castle pediatric clinic and Carbondale pediatric clinic, where preventative care is a top priority.

Who Should NOT Receive It?

Most children can safely receive the vaccine. However, it may be delayed if:

• There is a severe allergic reaction to a previous dose
• The infant is medically unstable at birth

Your pediatric provider will guide you through any necessary adjustments.

What If My Child Missed a Dose?

If your child falls behind, there is no need to restart the series. The AAP recommends continuing where you left off.

You can
schedule an appointment with our team to create a catch-up plan.

Why Following the Schedule Matters

The recommended schedule is based on how a child’s immune system develops. Delaying vaccines increases the risk of infection during vulnerable stages of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Hepatitis B really a risk for newborns?

Yes. Even without known exposure, early vaccination ensures immediate protection.

Can multiple vaccines be given at once?

Yes. According to the
AAP vaccine safety guidance, receiving multiple vaccines at the same visit is safe and effective.

Will my child need boosters later?

Most children do not require boosters after completing the full series.

Partner With Your Pediatrician

At Castle Valley Children’s Clinic, we are committed to helping parents make informed decisions. Explore more topics in our Vaccination Series or contact our team with any questions.

Schedule an Appointment

Your child’s health starts with prevention. Book your appointment today at our New Castle or Carbondale locations.

Supporting Local Families: Mountain View Church Kids Clothing Swap in Glenwood Springs

At Castle Valley Children’s Clinic, we know that raising healthy kids goes far beyond checkups and sick visits. It also means helping families access practical support, useful resources, and community events that make everyday life a little easier. That is one reason events like the Mountain View Church Kids Clothing Swap are such a great opportunity for local families in Glenwood Springs and the surrounding area.

If you have growing kids at home, you already know how quickly they move from one clothing size to the next. From infant outfits to school-age essentials and teen basics, it can feel like children outgrow wardrobes overnight. A community clothing swap is a simple, family-friendly way to pick up needed items, pass along gently used pieces, and connect with other local parents who understand exactly what that season of life looks like.

Event Details

The Mountain View Church Kids Clothing Swap is scheduled for April 18 from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM. Clothing sizes available range from infant through size 16, making this a helpful event for families with children in many different age groups.

The event will take place at:

2195 County Road 154, Glenwood Springs
Light past Walmart on the frontage road

One of the best parts of this event is that all items are free during the swap. No donation is required in order to participate, which helps make the event welcoming and accessible to every family. Attendees are encouraged to bring reusable shopping bags to carry home clothing and shoes.

Donation Information

Families who would like to give back can donate clean, gently used children’s clothes and shoes. Donations may be dropped off at Mountain View Church from April 3 through April 11. Events like this work best when the community comes together, and even a small bag of outgrown clothing can make a meaningful difference for another family.

Why Community Events Like This Matter

Children thrive when families feel supported. Access to clothing, shoes, seasonal essentials, and community connection can reduce stress on parents and caregivers, especially during busy or financially stretched times of year. A clothing swap is more than just a place to find free items. It is also a reminder that local families are not alone.

At Castle Valley Children’s Clinic, we believe strong communities help build strong kids. Whether your child needs preventive care, help staying on track with growth and development, or support during a busy school season, having trusted local resources matters. Community events and quality pediatric care work hand in hand to support children’s overall well-being.

Keeping Kids Healthy as Seasons Change

A clothing swap in spring is also a great time for parents to think ahead about seasonal health needs. As children transition into warmer weather, school activities, sports, and outdoor play, it can be helpful to stay current on preventive care and wellness visits. If your child is due for a routine exam, a sports clearance, or updated immunizations, our team is here to help.

Learn more about our services for Well Child Care, Vaccinations, and Sports Physicals. These visits help families stay proactive as kids grow, change, and stay active throughout the year.

Care That Supports the Whole Child

At Castle Valley Children’s Clinic, we are proud to provide care for children and young adults in a family-centered setting. We know that children’s health includes more than treating illness. It includes routine checkups, developmental support, behavioral health resources, preventive care, and guidance for parents navigating every stage of childhood.

If you are new to our clinic and want to learn more about who we are, visit our About page. If you are already part of our clinic family, you can also access helpful tools through our Patient Portal.

Planning to Attend the Kids Clothing Swap?

If you are heading to the Mountain View Church Kids Clothing Swap, remember to arrive early for the best selection and bring reusable bags. This is a wonderful chance to pick up clothing your child needs now, prepare for upcoming growth spurts, and be part of a practical, generous community event right here in Glenwood Springs.

We love seeing local families supported through events like this, and we are always glad to point parents toward resources that help children stay healthy, comfortable, and ready for whatever comes next.

Need Pediatric Care in the Roaring Fork Valley?

If your child needs a checkup, ongoing care, or help getting ready for school, sports, or seasonal activities, Castle Valley Children’s Clinic is here for your family. You can also contact us to get in touch with our team and learn more about available services and locations.

New Hours Starting Monday, February 9th!

Castle Valley Children’s Clinic is expanding it’s hours to better serve our community. We’re excited to announce that we are going to be open for new hours starting Monday February 9th. See hours below. This will be in effect at both locations in New Castle and Carbondale.

Monday: 9:00am-6:00pm
Tuesday: 9:00am-6:00pm
Wednesday: 9:00am-6:00pm
Thursday: 9:00am-5:00pm
Friday: 9:00am-5:00pm

**Please note that these hours are not in effect until February 9, 2026.**

Annual Book Fair At New Castle Recreation Center

Castle Valley Children’s Clinic is proud to sponsor this years annual book fair at the New Castle Recreation Center. This is the week! The FREE FOR ALL BOOK FAIR!! This is FREE event for kids and their adults to come take great quality books (as many as they want!) as well as other community prizes – gift cards and toys are some of them!! This is a great place to let kids “shop” for themselves and their family members this holiday season. And what is better than putting books into the hands of kids (and adults!).

We are so thankful to all our community members who helped us make this event possible. The community has been so incredible in helping this event come together.

Where: New Castle Recreation Center

Address: 423 W Main St, New Castle, CO 81647 (View On Google Maps)

When: Friday December 13, 2025 from 12PM – 5PM.

Admission: Free

Photos from prior book fairs in New Castle.

Book Fair Flyers

Annual CVCC Christmas Party With Santa

Castle Valley Children’s Clinic is proud to announce we’ve hosted our 21st Annual Christmas Party With Santa for children with special needs this past weekend at the New Castle Community Center.

Thanks to RIDE for bringing “Dandi” for all of the children, and adults to enjoy. You can find more information on him here.

We want to give a big thanks to our sponsors: Apline Bank, Rick & Judy Oakes, and Coca Cola.

If you would like more information about our Annual Christmas Party With Santa for children with special needs, contact us here.

Annual Book Fair At Glenwood Springs Community Center

Castle Valley Children’s Clinic is proud to sponsor this years annual book fair at the Glenwood Springs Community Center.

Where: Glenwood Springs Community Center

Address: 100 Wulfsohn Rd, Glenwood Springs, CO 81601 (View On Google Maps)

When: Friday December 13, 2025 from 12PM – 5PM.

Admission: Free

Photos from prior book fairs in New Castle.

You can read more about the 2024 book fair in Glenwood Springs here on the Post Independent website.

AZYEP 25 Hour Takeover

AZYEP is turning 25 — and we’re celebrating with a bold goal!

We’re raising $25,000 to honor 25 years of empowering youth through radio — and another $25,000 to fuel the next 25!

Help us reach our $50,000 goal by 2025 and support the voices of tomorrow during our annual Youth DJ Takeover.

This year, we’re taking it to the next level: 25 hours of nonstop youth-led radio on October 18–19. Tune in, spread the word, and be part of the celebration!

For more details visit https://event.auctria.com/c01b5940-ce82-46dc-8c45-8100f892efb2/aa6cd270-8751-11e9-a741-3fcfcb35cbb0

Vote Yes On 7A Colorado

Let’s give our kids from Parachute to Aspen a Strong Start so they can have a Bright Future

The Challenge

There simply isn’t enough childcare in our community, and the options that are available are too expensive for working families. From Parachute to Aspen, only 44% of kids under the age of five have access to a licensed child care spot. Families pay an average of $1,400 per month ($17,000 per year) for one kid.

The Plan

This November, voters in Garfield, Pitkin and SW Eagle Counties will be asked to approve an Early Childhood Service District to support:

• Tuition credits for families that reduce the cost of early childhood care and education.
• Provider grants that help create and grow more child care programs and increase wages for early childhood teachers.

For more details visit https://www.strongstartbrightfuture.com/

Western Slope Walk

Join Castle Valley Children's Clinic for the 2025 Western Slope Walk.

Register at https://afspwalks.donordrive.com/WesternSlope