Parent Resources

The first weeks with a new baby can feel overwhelming. Feed your baby responsively, watching for hunger cues rather than a strict clock. Keep the umbilical cord area clean and dry until it heals naturally, and always place your baby on their back to sleep, on a firm, flat surface free of loose bedding or soft toys.

Contact our practice promptly if your newborn feeds poorly, seems unusually drowsy or floppy, develops a fever, has laboured breathing, or if you simply feel something isn't right — trust your instincts as a parent.

Every child is different, and parents often know best when something is wrong. Seek prompt medical assessment if your child has a persistent or high fever, difficulty breathing, unusual drowsiness or is difficult to wake, refuses to feed or drink, shows signs of dehydration, develops a rash alongside fever, or is in obvious pain or distress.

When in doubt, it is always appropriate to contact our practice for guidance. For a medical emergency, go to your nearest Emergency Department / Mediclinic immediately.

Fever is a common and usually normal sign that your child's body is fighting an infection. Dress your child lightly, encourage fluids and rest, and monitor how they are behaving — how a child looks and acts is often more important than the exact temperature reading.

Seek same-day medical assessment for babies under three months with any fever, or for a fever accompanied by a rash, stiff neck, repeated vomiting, breathing difficulty, or a child who seems increasingly unwell. Always speak to your doctor or pharmacist before giving any fever medication, to confirm the correct product and dose for your child's age and weight.

Allergies in children can affect the skin (eczema, hives), the respiratory system (sneezing, wheezing) or occur in reaction to certain foods. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, and proper diagnosis is important before making major changes to your child's diet or environment.

If you suspect your child has an allergy, avoid self-diagnosing or removing food groups without guidance, and book an assessment with our practice. Seek emergency care immediately for any signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as facial or throat swelling or difficulty breathing.

Asthma is a common condition in children that causes the airways to become inflamed and narrowed, leading to coughing, wheezing or shortness of breath. Common triggers include colds and respiratory infections, exercise, allergens and smoke exposure.

Children with asthma benefit from an individualised management plan developed with their doctor. Seek urgent medical care if your child is struggling to breathe, cannot speak in full sentences, or their lips or face appear pale or bluish.

Vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to protect your child against a number of serious, preventable diseases. Keeping to the recommended immunisation schedule helps ensure your child builds protection at the right stages of development.

Bring your child's road-to-health / immunisation card to each visit. If you have questions about the schedule, a missed vaccination, or catch-up options, our paediatricians are happy to guide you.

Children grow and reach milestones at their own pace, but regular check-ups help track development and catch any concerns early. Everyday activities — talking, reading, playing and responding warmly to your child — all support healthy physical, emotional and language development.

If you are concerned that your child isn't meeting expected milestones, don't wait for a scheduled visit — raise it with our practice so it can be assessed.

Infants generally feed on breast milk or formula for the first months of life, with solid foods usually introduced from around six months alongside continued milk feeds. As children grow, a varied diet with fruits, vegetables, proteins and whole grains supports healthy development.

Every child's nutritional needs can differ, especially where there are allergies, feeding difficulties or growth concerns. Speak to our paediatricians for guidance suited to your child.

A little preparation can make a consultation much easier for your child. Bring your child's road-to-health card, a list of symptoms or questions, and any comfort item they may want. Explain the visit simply and honestly beforehand, and try to arrive a few minutes early so you aren't rushed.

Our team aims to make every visit as comfortable and reassuring as possible for both children and parents.