walking on toes

Why Does My Child Walk on Their Toes? Understanding Toe Walking in Toddlers and Young Children

Summary Toe walking in toddlers is common, particularly when children are learning to walk, and many children gradually develop a normal heel-to-toe walking pattern without treatment. Some children continue walking on their toes because it has become a habit, while others may have tight calf muscles, sensory preferences or, less commonly, an underlying neurological, muscular…

speech milestones

Speech Milestones by Age in Young Children: What Should Your Child Be Saying?

Summary Speech and language development begins long before a child says their first word. From responding to a parent’s voice and making eye contact to babbling, pointing, understanding instructions, putting words together and eventually telling stories, communication develops gradually during the first five years. Speech milestones by age can help parents understand what is broadly…

Genital problems in toddlers

Toddler Genital Health: Common Issues, Rashes & Hygiene Tips

Summary Genital problems in toddlers are surprisingly common and, in most cases, are caused by simple things such as moisture, irritation, incorrect wiping, nappies, soaps, bubble baths or the natural sensitivity of young children’s genital skin. Girls may develop vulvovaginitis, labial adhesions, threadworm-related itching or vulval irritation, while boys may experience balanitis, foreskin irritation or…

Sensory play in babies

Understanding Sensory Play for Babies: Why Everyday Touch Is Your Baby’s First Playground

Summary Sensory play for babies is much more than playing with colourful toys or messy materials. From the moment a baby is born, they are learning about the world through their senses — particularly through touch. The skin is the body’s largest sensory organ, and everyday experiences such as skin-to-skin contact, cuddling, feeding, being held,…

Baby development red flags

Baby Development: Red Flags All Parents Should Know About

Summary Every baby develops at their own pace, but there are certain developmental red flags that parents should not ignore. Knowing baby milestones by age can help parents recognise when a child may need a little extra support. Delays in movement, communication, social interaction, hearing, vision or problem-solving can sometimes indicate baby developmental delays. A…

flat head syndrome in babies

Flat Head Syndrome in Babies: Everything Parents Need to Know About Prevention, Causes and Treatment

Quick Summary Many parents notice that their baby’s head looks slightly flat on one side or at the back during the first few months and immediately begin to worry. The good news is that in most cases, flat head syndrome is common, harmless and highly manageable when identified early. This article explains what causes plagiocephaly…

newborn immunity development

Newborn Immunity Development: How to Strengthen Your Baby’s Immune System Naturally

Bringing home a newborn often comes with a mixture of joy, excitement and concern. One of the biggest worries for new parents is keeping their baby healthy and protected from illness. Since newborns are still developing their immune systems, it is natural to wonder whether they are getting enough protection and what parents can do…