Children grow quickly and so do their health needs. From routine check-ups to immunisations and developmental milestones, navigating your child’s health and overall childhood health can feel overwhelming. However, with the right guidance, you can stay on top of their physical, emotional and developmental wellbeing.
At Lakes Family Medicine, we help families feel confident about managing childhood health. This guide explains everything you need to know from key health checks and immunisation schedules to managing common childhood illnesses and supporting emotional wellbeing.
The Importance of Regular Child Health Check-Ups
Taking your child to the GP for regular health checks ensures they stay on track physically and developmentally. These child health check-ups allow your doctor to:
- Monitor height, weight and head circumference
- Check developmental milestones (walking, talking, social behaviour)
- Detect early signs of health issues
- Discuss nutrition, sleep and behaviour
- Provide parent education and guidance
By booking health assessments at key ages, you ensure any concerns are addressed early and managed effectively.
Childhood Immunisations: What to Expect
Childhood immunisations protect your child from serious diseases like measles, whooping cough and meningococcal disease. The National Immunisation Program (NIP) provides a free vaccination schedule starting from birth and continuing through adolescence.
Key immunisations include:
- Hepatitis B
- Diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis (whooping cough)
- Polio
- Rotavirus
- Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR)
- Meningococcal
- Human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Annual flu vaccine
- COVID-19 vaccine (where applicable)
Staying on schedule with immunisations not only protects your child but also contributes to broader public health through herd immunity.
Managing Common Childhood Illnesses
As children explore and grow, they are likely to encounter a range of minor illnesses. Your family GP can help diagnose and treat:
- Colds, flu and fevers
- Ear infections and sore throats
- Gastroenteritis and vomiting
- Asthma, wheezing and allergies
- Eczema and skin rashes
- Conjunctivitis
Knowing when to see a GP is key. If symptoms persist, worsen or affect your child’s feeding, sleep or behaviour, do not hesitate to seek medical advice.
Supporting Your Child’s Mental and Emotional Wellbeing
Mental health is an essential part of children’s healthcare. Children can experience a wide range of emotional and behavioural challenges as they grow.
Common concerns include:
- Separation anxiety
- Social difficulties
- Sleep disturbances
- Trouble focusing or sitting still
- Behavioural outbursts
- Low mood or withdrawal
GPs play a central role in assessing and supporting children’s mental health. We can refer families to child psychologists and support access to Medicare-funded mental health care plans for children where eligible.
By addressing emotional wellbeing early, you help your child develop resilience, self-awareness and coping strategies that benefit them for life.
Building Healthy Habits in Children
Healthy habits start early and lay the foundation for long-term wellbeing. Focus on these daily routines to support your child’s growth and health:
Nutrition
Provide a varied diet full of whole foods, fruits, vegetables, grains and protein. Limit sugary snacks and processed foods.
Physical Activity
Encourage at least 60 minutes of movement each day riding bikes, running, sports or outdoor play.
Sleep
Children need 10 to 14 hours of sleep depending on their age. Establish a consistent bedtime routine and reduce screen time before sleep.
Hygiene
Teach your child proper hand washing, dental care and hygiene habits to prevent illness.
Screen Time
Set clear limits for device use and encourage screen-free family time. Use screens mindfully and model healthy digital habits.
These routines help your child feel energised, focused and emotionally balanced throughout the day.
School Readiness and Learning Support
Starting school is a significant step in your child’s life. A school readiness health check with your GP can assess whether your child is developmentally prepared.
We assess:
- Communication and language skills
- Concentration and listening
- Fine motor skills (e.g. using scissors, pencils)
- Social interaction and emotional regulation
If your child faces learning or behavioural challenges, early identification means they can receive support from allied health professionals before school becomes overwhelming.
When to See a GP for Your Child
Your GP is your partner in managing your child’s health. Book a consultation if your child:
- Misses developmental milestones
- Experiences frequent illness
- Has feeding, sleeping or behavioural concerns
- Needs support for emotional or mental wellbeing
- Requires immunisations or catch-up vaccines
- Needs a referral to a paediatrician, speech pathologist or psychologist
Establishing a long-term relationship with your GP ensures continuity of care and helps children feel comfortable in a healthcare setting.
Conclusion: A Healthy Childhood Starts with Consistent Care
Navigating your child’s health does not have to be stressful. With regular check-ups, supportive healthcare providers and the right information, you can feel confident in managing their physical and emotional wellbeing.
By prioritising early intervention and building healthy habits, you are giving your child the tools to thrive now and in the future.
About Lakes Family Medicine
At Lakes Family Medicine, we offer comprehensive and compassionate healthcare for children of all ages. From childhood immunisations to managing chronic conditions and supporting mental health, our experienced GPs are here to guide your family every step of the way.
We work collaboratively with parents, schools and allied health providers to deliver holistic care that meets the unique needs of each child. Whether your child is due for a check-up or needs support with a health concern, we are ready to help. Because healthy kids build strong futures and it all starts with the right care.