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…

Highlights Many children have an imaginary friend, which might be a made-up person or creature that seems real to them. Imaginary friends are a way for your child to be creative and develop social skills. There are things you can…

Highlights Making friends is important for children’s development, but it isn’t always easy. How your child makes friends will change as they grow up. There are ways you can help them to make friends and be a good friend. In…

Highlights Emotional development in children is complex and starts in infancy. Strong emotional development may help your child develop resilience and good emotional wellbeing. You can help your child learn how to manage their emotions by teaching them ways to…

Highlights Many children may be sensitive or fearful in new situations. Most children learn to cope with these feelings. If anxiety prevents your child from participating in activities, extra support may be needed. There are ways to help your child…

Highlights Emotional trauma can be caused by one-off events, things that happen many times, or the accumulation of many things. If your child has emotional trauma or is grieving, you may notice a change in their feelings and behaviors. Emotional…

Highlights Growing pains generally affect children between the ages of 3 to 5 years and from 8 to 11 years. Some teenagers experience growing pains. Growing pains are generally felt in the late afternoon and evening but can also wake…

Highlights Your child’s gender identity is their sense of who they are. Most children start to understand their gender identity at around 3 to 4 years of age. Gender roles are what society expects of males and females. Gender roles…

Highlights Toddlers (1 to 3 years) can be affectionate but also challenging. Common behaviours include temper tantrums, fussy eating, and biting. These behaviours are normal, but there are tools to manage them. Encourage good behaviour by focusing on positive actions,…