As parents we always seek out the best for our children, especially wanting them to be happy and healthy. As parents, we always seek out the best for our children, especially wanting them to be happy and healthy.
Immediate assistance for acute conditions can be addressed quickly and efficiently at Parkhill Medical Centre. If necessary, the best specialist assistance can be arranged as required. Keeping up with what children require is a challenge because their needs change as they grow. Feeding, sleep problems, developmental milestones, immunization, management of behavioral problems and puberty are all common issues to consider.
For a proactive approach, our ‘’Well Kids Health Check’ can take care of any concerns relating to their development and help to map out the best approach for their future wellbeing.
Feeding and sleeping problems
Each newborn baby is unique so what works for one person regarding feeding and sleeping may not work for another. Also the developmental periods of a baby mean that what works one week may need to be altered in the future.
Thankfully experienced external advice in both areas makes the world of difference and we are able to provide you with the methods and tools with which to find your own way forward.
We can offer a practical approach to dealing with settling and waking problems that your baby may experience and how to deal with the many triggers that lead to sleep problems such as hunger, dummy use, rocking your baby to sleep, and the types of bedtime rituals that parents use to get your baby off to sleep.
Just like sleeping, feeding problems can arise at different stages of a baby’s development. From breastfeeding babies to toddlers who are picky eaters we can guide you through these different stages and assist with everything from reflux to food allergies.
Developmental milestones
From the first smile and waving goodbye to trying a somersault we can walk you through the developmental milestones and explain what to do if you have concerns about your child at any stage. These milestones are excting and it is a good idea to know what is next, so that you can plan and give your child the best start in life. By nurturing, protecting and guiding them through these important stages, you can help prepare your child for independence in a positive, safe and healthy way.
Childhood Immunisation
Worldwide, it has been estimated that immunization programmes prevent approximately two to three million deaths each year and having your child immunized from an early age helps protect against serious childhood infections.
Parkhill medical Centre follows The Immunization Schedule Victoria which outlines the vaccines your child needs and at what the age each vaccine should be given.
For more information about specific childhood vaccinations, please refer to this schedule: National Immunization Program Schedule
From birth until the age of four, there are several vaccinations and there are particular immunization requirements your child will need in order to attend childcare, kindergarten and school.
Making your baby comfortable during the immunisations
While the injections might be scary for the child, it can be even scarier for the parent! There are several ways to make your child’s immunization easier. You are encouraged to hold your baby and comfort them with hugs and cuddles. Some babies are very happy to feed during their injections, which can act as a distraction and comfort them. Sucking can also help relieve pain or distress, so remember to bring their dummy or a bottle of formula. Our doctors and nurses will make the process as easy and quick as possible!
Management of behavioral problems
One of the greatest challenges of parenting is managing difficult or defiant behavior – especially if they are outside what is perceived as the normal range for their age. These problems can be a result of temporary stressors or may represent a more enduring disorder. Whatever the cause, discussing your child’s behavior with your GP will enable both you and your child to have a clear path forward.
Treatment may consist of tips on how to understand and respond effectively to problematic behavior all the way through to medication for professionally and thoroughly diagnosed disorders such as ADHD, Any treatment aims to provide a calmer, more consistent way in which to manage problem behavior and ultimately offer the best chance for your child to develop the skills that they need to regulate their own behavior.