The mixed messages around children, food and weight - not to mention sophisticated marketing - can leave parents perplexed. But there are ways to wade through it all and find healthy choices.
Rates of ADHD medications prescribed for children have gone up by 30% in three years. But our research found only one in four children who meet ADHD criteria are taking medication.
Only a minority of products in Australia actually have mandatory standards applied to them. There is a misconception that product standards can prevent all injuries.
The number of families living in high-rise, inner-city apartments is growing. Yet our research shows many parents find it challenging to raise children in such housing.
Compulsory sport and physical education at school will improve children’s memory, attention and ability to concentrate, not just boost fitness. The evidence is in.
The flu vaccine isn’t perfect but it’s the best way to protect against these potentially harmful viruses. Most children aged six months to five years are eligible for a free vaccine in 2018.
The latest poll on children’s oral health shows many parents have misconceptions about how to prevent tooth decay in their children and don’t know of the free dental services available.
Director, Center for Community Child Health Royal Children's Hospital; Professor, Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne; Theme Director Population Health, Murdoch Children's Research Institute