Highlights If your child is eating, behaving, and playing normally, they are probably not very sick. Common symptoms of childhood illness include fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, pain, rash, and cough. If your child has a fever for more than 2 days,…

Highlights Bullying is a form of aggressive or violent behaviour that happens when one child tries to abuse their power over another child. Helping children to protect themselves is more likely to be successful than trying to stop the bullies.…

Highlights As your child grows, they will learn new words and become more independent. At around 2 years old, your child will learn to say ‘no’. Your child may say ‘no’ and refuse to do things as a way to…

Highlights Children may lie because they don’t yet understand the difference between reality and imagination. Toddlers might lie to avoid trouble, impress others, or get something they want. Lying is normal in early development and typically starts around age 3…

Highlights Having a second child can be exciting but also overwhelming. Your toddler may feel left out or jealous of the new baby. Preparing your toddler before the baby arrives can help. Always supervise interactions between your toddler and the…

Highlights Thumb sucking in infants is common. Most children stop sucking their thumb (or fingers) by themselves. Some children who continue thumb sucking as they get older can have problems with their teeth. There are strategies for helping your child…

Highlights Temper tantrums are outbursts of screaming and other challenging behaviours when your child loses control. Tantrums are normal in toddlers and typically occur up to age 3. Children may have tantrums when overwhelmed by feelings, such as frustration or…

Highlights Sibling rivalry is common in most families and has many causes. Children need help developing skills to resolve conflicts fairly. It’s important to establish clear family rules and intervene before fights escalate. Age and temperament influence the intensity of…

Highlights Separation anxiety in children is a fear of being separated from their parent or carer. It’s common for babies and young children to be upset when someone they love leaves, even for a short time. Separation anxiety usually starts…

Highlights Self-esteem is a child’s overall sense of worth or personal value. A child’s self-esteem is shaped by how they see themselves and how others treat them. Encouragement helps children develop self-esteem. Constant criticism can damage self-esteem. Learning to cope…