Health checks for babies

Shortly before or after your baby is born, you'll be given a Child Health Record booklet. In Australia, this usually has a blue cover and is often called 'the blue book'.

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Developmental milestones in babies and children

All babies grow and develop at different rates, but tracking how they reach certain ‘milestones’ – such as moving or communicating - along the way is one method to assess their progress. Learn more here.

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Child development

Links to our information partners' articles about child development.

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Learning development

Links to articles about learning development.

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Baby development

Information about baby development from leading Australian health organisations, including links to content on baby development by age.

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How your baby gains weight

All babies will gain weight differently, but there are some guidelines for healthy weight gain.

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Asthma and pregnancy

Most asthma medicines have been shown to be extremely safe for both you and your developing baby but check with your doctor if taking oral corticosteroids.

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Childcare, school exclusions, and COVID-19

Frequently asked questions on COVID-19 (coronavirus) for parents and carers regarding childcare and school.

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Rickets

Rickets is a bone disease, usually a result of low vitamin D levels, that causes soft and weak bones. It occurs in children and, occasionally, teenagers.

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G6PD deficiency

G6PD deficiency, sometimes called 'favism', is a genetic disorder that causes red blood cells to break down when exposed to triggers. People with G6PD deficiency can live a healthy life.

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Fifth disease (Slapped cheek disease)

Fifth disease or 'slapped cheek disease' is a fairly mild viral illness that appears as a red rash that makes children’s cheeks look like they’ve been slapped.

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Mouth sores and ulcers

An ulcer is a common type of mouth sore. It can make everyday tasks like teeth brushing, talking, eating and drinking feel uncomfortable.

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Williams syndrome

Williams syndrome can cause development, learning and medical problems, although children with it often have well-developed language and music skills.

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How your baby's teeth develop

Baby teeth start to come through the gums at about 6 months and have usually all appeared by 2 to 3 years of age. Learn how to care for baby teeth.

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Developing life skills through sports

Sport isn’t just good for children’s bodies. Sport has psychological benefits for children and adolescents, and teaches them important life skills.

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Undescended testicles

Undescended testicles refers to one or both testes missing from the scrotum. Treatment, if needed, is important to prevent future health problems.

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Get behind bowel cancer screening

Free bowel cancer screening test kits are being sent to Australians aged from 50 to 74. Bowel cancer is one of the most curable cancers – if detected early on.

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Children with asthma and exercise

Asthma is not a reason for children to avoid sport. It is usually managed easily and should be included in your child’s asthma action plan.

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Craniosynostosis

Craniosynostosis is a birth defect in which the seams (sutures) between the bones in a newborn baby's skull close too early. It can be treated.

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Speech development in children

Kids learn to talk and develop at their own rate, but there are some general patterns of speech development for babies and children. Find out more.

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Schizophrenia

Despite what many think, people with schizophrenia don’t have a ‘split personality’ and very few are violent. Learn more about this mental illness.

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Dental injury

The most common cause of a dental injury is a fall or playing sport. It can also happen from eating something hard. Learn more here.

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Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder is a name given to a range of conditions. Learn more about FASD and the risks with drinking alcohol during pregnancy.

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Congenital heart disease

Congenital heart disease is a birth defect, occurring when a baby is born with a heart that hasn’t formed properly. Some forms of the condition are uncomplicated; others can be very serious. Learn about the differences here.

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Immunisation and vaccinations for your child

Immunisation is a simple, safe and effective way of protecting children against certain diseases. Discover more about childhood vaccinations.

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Dental care for children

Tooth decay is on the rise, so it’s vital to teach your child good oral health habits. Get tips on how to clean your children's teeth well.

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Croup

Croup is very common in children under 5 years old. Find out how croup is diagnosed and treated here.

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Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD, also known as ADD) is characterised by symptoms including inattention, hyperactivity and impulsive behaviour.

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Chickenpox (varicella)

Chickenpox is a mild and common childhood illness, but can also occur in adults. Here’s how to help ease symptoms and discomfort.

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About My Health Record

My Health Record is Australia's secure digital health record system. Learn how to store information, such as prescriptions and vaccinations.

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