Babies' and toddlers' health

Knowing and understanding the health risks of young children is an important part of being a parent. Learn about health issues like breastfeeding, croup and fevers in young children.

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Hip dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is usually detected in babies, but adolescents and adults may also experience symptoms. Find out more about the disorder here.

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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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Junk food and your health

Consuming junk food can lead to short and long-term health complications such as weight gain, diabetes and heart problems.

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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'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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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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Baby feeding

It is important to talk to your midwives, nurses or doctor if your baby is not feeding as you expect. Here's information about breast feeding, formula feeding and moving onto solids.

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Colic in babies

Excessive crying could be a sign that your baby has colic. Everyone agrees that colic exists but no one knows what causes it. Some doctors think it's a kind of stomach cramp.

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Colds and flu in babies and children

Here is information on the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatments of coughs, colds and flu in children and babies and when to seek medical advice.

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Is 'baby brain' real?

Researchers at Deakin University who investigated 'baby brain' found that cognitive function and memory are affected in the third trimester of pregnancy.

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Your baby and the first few weeks

The first few weeks at home with your newborn can be an exciting but daunting time, particularly if you are new parents. Find out what care and support are available to you after you leave hospital.

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Cradle cap

Cradle cap is the build-up of yellow, greasy and often scaly patches of skin that appear on your baby's scalp. It is not painful or itchy for your baby.

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Play with babies and toddlers

Not only is playing fun, but it's also the most effective way for children to learn. By playing, children can practise all the skills they'll need as they grow up.

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Fever in babies and children - infographic

When should a child with a fever see a doctor? How do I treat a fever at home? Answer these questions and more with this infographic about fever in children.

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Symptoms of serious illness in babies and children

If your child has a serious illness, it’s important to get medical attention quickly. Learn how to recognise the symptoms and what to do.

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Nappy rash

Nappy rash is a common skin condition that happens to babies under 2. They are usually easily treated and won't cause long term problems. Find out more here.

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Postnatal depression

Many women experience the 'baby blues' after pregnancy, but when feelings persist beyond these early days, it may be a sign of depression.

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About breastfeeding

Breastfeeding can be a special time for both mum and baby. Breast milk meets all your baby's nutritional needs from birth to 6 months.

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Clubfoot

Clubfoot is a birth abnormality that makes one or both of a baby's feet pointed and twisted. The condition doesn't hurt the baby and can be treated. Learn more here.

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Contractions

Contractions are a sign that labour is starting, and they will help push your baby down.

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Why 4 in 10 mothers stop breastfeeding by 6 months

Most new parents know 'breast is best', but while more than 9 out of 10 babies are breastfed at birth, few mums are breastfeeding exclusively 5 months later.

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Iodine deficiency

Iodine deficiency is the most common cause of thyroid disease and can even cause brain damage in babies. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, women should take iodine supplements. Learn more here.

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Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)

Sudden Unexpected Death in Infancy (SUDI) is a term used to describe the sudden and unexpected death of a baby.

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Weaning

Weaning is when you stop breastfeeding your baby or toddler and start introducing solids (and possibly formula).

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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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Smoking and pregnancy

Find out how quitting smoking will improve your health and give your baby the best start in life.

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Caesarean section

A caesarean section is an operation to deliver a baby. Find more articles from our information partners on this page.

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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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Aortic coarctation

This is a heart condition in which a section of the aorta, an important blood vessel, is narrowed. Aortic coarctation mainly affects newborn babies.

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