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,…

Highlights Teach your child appropriate behaviour through love, firmness, and being a good role model Set clear rules, create a routine, ensure enough sleep, and limit screen time Respond to difficult behaviour by withholding attention, reminding your child of the…

Highlights Biting is common in toddlers and part of normal child development. Children bite for various reasons, including frustration, stress, or boredom. If your child bites, stay calm, remove them from the situation, and explain that biting hurts and is…

Highlights It’s normal and healthy for children to show age-appropriate interest in sex and to express sexual behaviours. Masturbation is a healthy part of development. Comfortable reactions and good communication help your child develop positive attitudes about sexuality and reduce…

Highlights Worries and fears are a normal part of childhood. Your child’s fears will change as they grow and develop. You can support your child and help them learn skills to manage their anxieties. If your child has severe anxiety…

Highlights Positive body image leads to greater self-esteem and a healthier outlook on life. Children as young as 3 years of age start to recognise their bodies. Media and parental influence affect a child’s body image. Parents can positively influence…

Highlights Wait until your child shows signs of readiness for toilet training. This usually happens between 18 months and 3 years. Be patient and relaxed when you start. Praise your child for progress, and don’t make a big deal about…

Highlights Learning to feed themselves is an important part of toddler development. Babies usually start to feed themselves with their fingers at about 6 months old. You can help your child learn to feed themselves by having family meals and…