Complete Children's Health

10/10/2025

Our latest Blog has been posted -

Recognising early signs of eating disorders is challenging in any child, but it can be especially complex in children on the autism spectrum. That’s because many behaviours associated with eating disorders—such as selective eating, rigid routines, or sensory sensitivities—can also be part of t...

07/10/2025

Did you know that how a child walks can offer early clues about autism?
Subtle gait differences—such as sustained toe‑walking, in‑toeing (feet turned in), or out‑toeing (feet turned out)—are now recognised in diagnostic tools as possible indicators of ASD. Many autistic individuals also walk more slowly, take wider steps, and display more variability in stride length or speed
If you’ve noticed persistent walking patterns like these, especially alongside concerns about balance, coordination, or sensory sensitivities, it’s worth exploring further with a health professional.

05/10/2025

https://theconversation.com/new-barbie-with-type-1-diabetes-could-help-kids-with-the-condition-feel-seen-and-help-others-learn-261263

Mattel’s new Barbie comes equipped with an insulin pump and wears a continuous glucose monitor on her arm.

03/10/2025

Building independence in autistic teens starts with everyday skills—things like preparing simple meals, managing money, or learning to travel safely on public transport.

Breaking these tasks into clear, manageable steps and practising them often can boost confidence and self-reliance. Visual reminders, structured routines, and celebrating small wins along the way all make a big difference.

🌱 Independence grows when we give teens the chance to try, make mistakes, and succeed in their own time.

02/10/2025

Too much screen time in the early years can reduce how much a child hears, speaks, and connects.
New research shows toddlers with high screen use may miss out on over 1,000 spoken words and nearly 200 chances for back-and-forth conversation per day. That’s a big deal for brain development.

📱 Under 2? Avoid screens (except video chats)
👶 Aged 2–5? Stick to max 1 hour a day—co-viewed where possible

Swap screens for play, reading, and real conversation—small changes now make a big impact later.

30/09/2025

Occasionally, the most effective communication with children happens in short, regular bursts—not marathon talks.

Psychologists recommend repeating one‑minute conversations over time to let children process feelings at their own pace. These short interactions create non-threatening routines and help them feel heard. It’s a gentle, sustainable way to foster openness without overwhelming them.

28/09/2025

Could AI Make Kids Smarter?
Spoiler: It Depends on How We Use It
AI has the potential to enhance learning through personalised lessons tailored to each child’s pace, opportunities for curiosity-driven discovery, and tools that support neurodivergent learners such as those with ADHD or dyslexia. But passive, hands-off use? Not so smart. Over-reliance risks dulling critical thinking, reducing resilience, shortening attention spans, and weakening memory. Human connection, real play, and guided curiosity remain essential.

Parents: Keep AI as an ally—not the teacher. Choose thoughtful tools, encourage real-world learning, limit screen time, and help your child reflect on how they learn

26/09/2025

Please read this statement from us re the recent reports on paracetamol use and autism

Recent discussions online have suggested a link between paracetamol use and autism. Understandably, this has caused concern for many parents. We want to reassure families that in Australia, there is no scientific evidence to support these claims. Paracetamol is one of the most commonly used medicine...

25/09/2025

Many parents slip into gentle untruths—like “everything will be fine” or “you’re the best”—with the intention of calming or motivating their children.
But psychologists now warn: even well-meaning fibs can shape how children view themselves and the world. Repeated comfort lies may foster unrealistic expectations, dampen emotional expression, or make children hesitant to share vulnerability

💡 Try to:
Be truthful in reassuring ways
Teach children that it's okay to feel upset or uncertain
Highlight real achievements instead of exaggerated praise
Model honesty in everyday conversations
Trust isn’t built on perfection—it’s built by valuing honesty and emotional honesty.

25/09/2025

The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes that there is currently no conclusive scientific evidence confirming a possible link between autism and use of acetaminophen (also known as paracetamol) during pregnancy.

23/09/2025

Despite being largely unacknowledged, many autistic individuals experience difficulty with body temperature regulation. Studies suggest autonomic nervous system differences and temperature‑sensing pathway variations lead to marked heat or cold intolerance.
Key signs may include unusual behaviour when overheated or chilled, refusal of weather‑appropriate clothing, or need for restrictive environmental control (e.g. thermostat fiddling).
How to help:
Create sensory‑aware environments with fans, blankets, or quiet cool spaces
Share temperature check routines with caregivers
Avoid assuming discomfort is “attention seeking”
Collaborate across settings to recognise and respect each child’s thermal needs
This often‑forgotten sensory difference deserves attention—not dismissal.

21/09/2025

Anxiety affects many autistic children—research shows up to 69% of kids aged 9–12 experience it, and rates may range from 40% to 79% overall.
This isn't just worry—it's often triggered by:
sensory overload (like bright lights or loud noises),
changes to routine,
or difficulty interpreting social cues.
What helps:
Validate their emotions and use calming strategies,
Keep environments predictable to reduce surprise,
With early support, anxiety can be managed more effectively—giving children better confidence and routine.