What are the opening hours?

Monday 07:30 - 17:00 Tuesday 07:30 - 17:00 Wednesday 07:30 - 17:00 Thursday 07:30 - 17:00 Friday 07:30 - 13:00

Dr JW Robbetze Paediatrician, 15 Park Road, Belgravia, Kimberley North (2026)

20/04/2026

🐛 Deworming in Children – Why It Matters 🐛

Intestinal worms are very common in children, While it may sound alarming, it’s something we can easily manage and prevent.

👶 What are intestinal worms?

These are small parasites that live in the intestines. The most common types in children include roundworms, pinworms, and hookworms.

⚠️ How do children get worms?

• Playing in soil or sand and then touching their mouth
• Not washing hands before eating
• Eating unwashed fruits or vegetables
• Drinking contaminated water

🚨 Signs and symptoms:

Some children may have no symptoms at all, but watch for:
• Tummy pain or cramps
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Nausea or vomiting
• Itching around the a**s (especially at night – common with pinworms)
• Poor appetite or weight loss
• Fatigue or irritability

📉 Why is deworming important?

If left untreated, worms can:
• Affect your child’s growth and development
• Lead to poor nutrition and vitamin deficiencies
• Cause anemia (low iron levels)
• Impact concentration and energy levels

💊 Deworming treatment:

Deworming medication is safe and effective, sometimes medication can be repeated after 2 weeks depending on the type of worm)

🗓️ How often should children be dewormed?

In many cases, children are dewormed every 6 months, especially in high-risk environments but it's always better to give us a call when you feel unsure.

🧼 Prevention tips for parents:

✔️ Teach proper hand washing (before meals & after toilet use)
✔️ Keep fingernails short and clean
✔️ Wash bedding and underwear regularly (especially if itchy bottoms are a problem)
✔️ Wash fruits and vegetables well
✔️ Avoid nail biting and thumb sucking where possible

💚 Remember:

Deworming is a simple step that helps protect your child’s growth, health, and happiness.

06/04/2026

🌬️👶 Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

RSV is a highly contagious respiratory virus and one of the most common causes of lower respiratory tract infections in infants and young children worldwide. Almost all children will have been infected by the age of 2 years.
While many cases are mild and resemble a common cold, RSV can sometimes lead to more serious illnesses such as bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways) and pneumonia—especially in vulnerable infants.

🔍 How RSV spreads:
RSV spreads easily through

• Droplets from coughing and sneezing
• Direct contact (kissing, touching)
• Contaminated surfaces (toys, hands, countertops)
The virus can survive on surfaces for several hours, making transmission in households and daycare settings common.

⚠️ Common symptoms

• Runny nose and nasal congestion
• Persistent cough
• Fever
• Wheezing
• Difficulty breathing
• Reduced feeding or poor appetite
Symptoms usually appear 3–5 days after exposure and may worsen over the first few days.

🚨 Warning signs requiring urgent medical attention

• Rapid or laboured breathing
• Chest wall retractions (pulling in under ribs or at the neck)
• Nasal flaring
• Apnoea (pauses in breathing), especially in young infants
• Poor feeding or signs of dehydration
• Lethargy or decreased responsiveness
• Bluish lips or skin (cyanosis)

👶 Children at higher risk of severe disease

• Infants under 6 months of age
• Premature babies
• Children with chronic lung disease
• Congenital heart disease
• Weakened immune systems
These children may require closer monitoring or hospital care if infected.

🏥 Treatment

There is no specific antiviral treatment for most RSV infections. Management is mainly supportive and may include:
• Ensuring adequate hydration
• Nasal suctioning or saline drops
• Oxygen therapy in more severe cases
• Hospitalisation if breathing support or feeding assistance is needed.

🛡️ Prevention:

• Frequent handwashing
• Avoid close contact with sick individuals
• Limit exposure of young infants to crowded environments during peak seasons
• Clean and disinfect commonly touched surfaces

💙 Reassurance for parents

Most children recover fully with supportive care. However, early recognition of worsening symptoms is key to preventing complications.

📍 If you are concerned about your child’s breathing, feeding, or general condition, give us a call, sooner rather than later 💜

02/04/2026

💙 World Autism Awareness Day – 2 April 2026 💙

Today we celebrate the beautifully unique minds of children on the autism spectrum. 🌈✨

Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a child communicates, interacts socially, and experiences the world around them. It is called a spectrum because it presents differently in every individual — each child has their own personality, strengths, and challenges.

💙 Understanding Autism

Autism is not an illness or something that needs to be “fixed.” It is a different way of thinking, learning, and experiencing life. With the right support, children with autism can grow, learn, and thrive in their own unique way.

🔹 Important facts to know:

• Autism affects people of all backgrounds and cultures
• It is not caused by parenting or external factors like vaccines
• Signs can appear in early childhood, often before the age of 2
• Early diagnosis allows for early support, which can improve outcomes
• Many children with autism have exceptional strengths — from creativity and attention to detail to strong memory and problem-solving skills
• Some children may struggle with social interaction, while others may simply communicate differently
• Sensory sensitivities (to sound, touch, light, or taste) are very common
• Routine and predictability can help children feel safe and secure

🔍 When should parents look out for signs?

Every child develops at their own pace, but early signs of autism may include:
• Limited eye contact or reduced social smiling
• Not responding to their name by 12 months
• Delayed speech or loss of previously learned words
• Limited gestures (e.g. pointing, waving)
• Preferring to play alone or difficulty engaging with others
• Repetitive behaviours such as rocking, spinning, or lining up toys
• Intense interest in specific objects or topics
• Strong reactions to changes in routine
• Sensitivity or unusual reactions to sounds, textures, lights, or smells
If you notice any of these signs, give us a call. Early support can make a meaningful difference in your child’s development. 💙

🩺 How is autism supported?

There is no cure for autism, but there are many ways to support a child’s development and help them build essential life skills. Support is always tailored to each child’s individual needs and may include:
• Speech and language therapy – to help with communication and understanding
• Occupational therapy – to support sensory processing, motor skills, and daily activities
• Behavioural therapy – to encourage positive behaviours and social skills
• Educational support – structured learning environments suited to the child’s needs
• Routine and structure – creating predictable daily patterns that help children feel secure
• Family support and training – empowering parents and caregivers with tools and strategies

💊 Are there medications?

There is no medication that can cure autism itself. However, in some cases, We may prescribe medication to help manage certain associated symptoms or challenges, such as:
• Anxiety or excessive worry
• Hyperactivity or attention difficulties
• Sleep disturbances
• Irritability or severe behavioural challenges
Medication is never the first step and is only used when necessary, under careful medical guidance, and as part of a comprehensive care plan.

🌈 Celebrating strengths

Children with autism often see the world in ways that are wonderfully different. They may notice details others miss, think creatively, or show deep passion for their interests. By nurturing these strengths, we help them build confidence and independence.

💙 How can we all make a difference?

• Practice patience and understanding
• Use clear, supportive communication
• Respect sensory needs and personal space
• Encourage inclusion in schools, playgrounds, and communities
• Educate ourselves and others
• Celebrate every milestone — big or small

Let’s move beyond awareness and embrace acceptance, inclusion, and kindness. Every child deserves to feel valued, supported, and loved for exactly who they are. 🤍

💙 Different, not less
💙 Awareness leads to acceptance
💙 Acceptance creates inclusion

23/03/2026

💛💙 World Down Syndrome Day – 21 March 💙💛

Extra chromosome… extra cuteness… extra personality 😄💛

Today we’re celebrating our amazing kids with Down syndrome — because honestly, they often have more joy, more sass, and sometimes even better dance moves than the rest of us 💃🕺

👇
🧬 What is Down syndrome?

Down syndrome happens when a child has an extra copy of chromosome 21 (called Trisomy 21). This extra genetic material changes how the body and brain develop — but every child is unique, with their own strengths and personality.

👶 How common is it?

It occurs in about 1 in every 700 births worldwide and can happen in any pregnancy, regardless of race, lifestyle, or background.

💛 Not an illness

Down syndrome is a genetic condition — not a disease and not something that can be “caught” or prevented.

🧠 Learning & development

Children with Down syndrome usually have some level of developmental delay, but they continue to learn new skills throughout life. With the right support, they can read, write, communicate, and gain independence.

🩺 Health considerations

Some children may have associated conditions such as congenital heart defects, hearing or vision problems, or thyroid issues. The good news? Many of these can be treated or well-managed with proper medical care and follow-up.

🗣️ Speech & communication

Speech may develop more slowly, but children often understand more than they can express. They communicate beautifully through gestures, expressions, and eventually words — and speech therapy can really help boost confidence.

🧩 Early intervention matters

Therapies like physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy can significantly support development — especially when started early.

🏫 School & social life

Many children attend school (mainstream or specialized), build meaningful friendships, and participate in sports, music, and activities. Inclusion plays a huge role in their growth and confidence.

💼 Adulthood & independence

People with Down syndrome can work, form relationships, and live semi-independently or independently depending on support. Their potential is far greater than many people expect.

😊 Personality & strengths

They are often known for their warmth, empathy, strong social skills, and ability to connect deeply with others. They remind us daily what genuine joy looks like 💛😄✨
Because the world could definitely use a little more of what they have

23/03/2026

Happy birthday to our wonderful receptionist Carmen.
We are truly blessed to have someone as bright and friendly as you on our team!

May your year be filled with happiness and many many blessings!

19/03/2026

Our hearts are full 💛

Thank you for this incredibly kind message — being part of your journey is an honour we never take for granted.

19/03/2026

🌡️ Febrile Seizures in Children / Koorsstuipe 🌡️

Seeing your child have a seizure is one of the most frightening experiences a parent can go through. 💔 It often happens suddenly, without warning, and can leave you feeling helpless.

The reassuring news is that they are quite common in young children and are usually not dangerous.

👶 What are febrile seizures?

Febrile seizures are convulsions triggered by a fever, typically in children between the ages of 6 months and 5 years. They are often linked to common infections like colds, flu, or ear infections — not necessarily how high the fever is, but how quickly it rises.

📊 How common are they?

About 1 in 20 children will experience a febrile seizure at some point in early childhood. Some children may only ever have one, while others might have a few episodes.

⚠️ What does a febrile seizure look like?

- Sudden stiffening of the body
- Rhythmic jerking of arms and legs
- Eyes rolling back
- Loss of awareness or consciousness
- Sometimes drooling or vomiting

⏱️ Most seizures last less than 5 minutes, although it can feel much longer in the moment.

🩺 What should you do if your child has a seizure?

✔️ Stay as calm as possible
✔️ Gently place your child on their side (recovery position)
✔️ Remove any nearby objects to prevent injury
✔️ Loosen tight clothing, especially around the neck
✔️ Time the seizure if you can

🚫 What NOT to do:

- Do NOT put anything in your child’s mouth
- Do NOT try to restrain their movements
- Do NOT give food, drink, or medication during the seizure

🚑 When should you seek urgent help?

- If the seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes
- If your child has difficulty breathing
- If the seizure only affects one side of the body
- If your child does not wake up or respond after the seizure
- If it’s your child’s first seizure

❤️ Important reassurance for parents:

Febrile seizures are usually harmless
They do NOT cause brain damage
They do NOT mean your child has epilepsy
Most children outgrow them by the age of 5

🔁 Can it happen again?

Yes — some children may have more than one febrile seizure, especially if they tend to get fevers often. While this can be stressful, it still does not usually lead to long-term problems.

🌼 A gentle reminder:

Fevers are a natural response to infection, and febrile seizures are simply the body’s reaction in some children. While they are scary to witness, they are typically brief. 💛

18/03/2026

Happy birthday to our wonderful nurse Jarina!
We are truly blessed to have someone as compassionate and hardworking as you on our team.

May your day be filled with happiness, laughter and lots of cake.

16/03/2026

🗣️👶 Speech Delay in Kids.

One of the most common questions parents ask is:

“Why isn’t my child talking yet?”

Meanwhile that same child somehow knows exactly how to say:
“NO.”
“SNACK.”
…and the universal toddler word… “MINE!” 😄

The truth is that children develop speech at different speeds, and many late talkers catch up completely. But it’s still helpful to know what is generally expected as little brains and mouths learn to work together.

👶 Typical Speech Milestones
Every child is unique, but these are rough guidelines:

• Around 12 months:
Lots of babbling like “ba-ba” and “da-da” and maybe a word or two like mama or dada.
• Around 18 months:
About 10–20 words (although they may understand many more).
• Around 2 years:
Toddlers usually start combining two words like “more juice”, “mommy up”, or “bye car”.
• Around 3 years:
Short sentences appear and parents can understand most of what they say — even if strangers still look confused.

🚩 Possible Signs of Speech Delay
It might be worth coming to see us if your child:

• Isn’t babbling by about 12 months
• Says very few words by 18 months
• Isn’t using two-word phrases by age 2
• Struggles to understand simple instructions
• Rarely points, gestures, or makes eye contact
• Seems frustrated when trying to communicate

Remember: understanding language is just as important as speaking it.

👂 Don’t Forget Hearing
Sometimes speech delays happen simply because children aren’t hearing words clearly.
Frequent ear infections or fluid behind the ears can affect hearing, which can slow speech development.
A quick hearing check can sometimes solve the mystery.

📚 Simple Things Parents Can Do at Home

The good news is that everyday interaction helps speech development more than fancy toys.
Try these simple things:

📖 Read together every day
Even if your toddler tries to eat the book halfway through.

🗣️ Talk about everything
Describe what you’re doing:
“Mommy is cutting the apple.”
“Look at the big red car!”

🎶 Sing songs and nursery rhymes
Kids learn language through rhythm and repetition.

📵 Limit screen time
Children learn language best from people, not screens.

🧸 Follow your child’s interests
If they love trucks, talk about trucks.
If they love dinosaurs, congratulations — you will soon know the names of every dinosaur on earth.

💙 The Most Important Thing to Remember
Many children who are late talkers catch up beautifully, especially with a little support.
But if something doesn’t feel right, trust your parent instinct. Early support can make a huge difference.
And one day you may even find yourself thinking:

"Remember when I was worried they weren’t talking… and now they never stop?" 😄

12/03/2026

🍎 “Is My Child Eating Enough?” 🍎

One of the most common worries parents have is whether their child is eating enough. The truth is — many children eat less than we expect, and that can still be completely normal.

Children’s appetites naturally go up and down depending on growth, activity levels, and even their mood that day. One day they may eat everything in sight, and the next day they seem to survive on three bites of toast and a cracker.

Signs your child is likely eating enough:
✅ They are growing well
✅ They have energy to play and be active
✅ They are generally healthy
✅ They have regular wet nappies or normal urine output

A few helpful tips:
🥕 Offer a variety of healthy foods, but don’t force eating🥑 Keep regular meal and snack times🍓
Let children decide how much they want to eat🥛
Avoid too much milk which can fill little tummies

Remember:
Parents decide what is served — children decide how much they eat.

If you are worried about poor growth, extreme picky eating, or your child refusing most foods, it’s always a good idea to give us a call.

Every child grows at their own pace — and their tiny tummies know exactly what they need. 💛

09/03/2026

🦷👂 Teething vs Ear Infection 👂🦷

Few things are more confusing (or exhausting 😅) than a fussy baby who won’t sleep. They’re drooling, cranky, pulling at their ear… and you’re left wondering:
Is this teething? Or an ear infection?

🦷 TEETHING

Teething usually starts around 4–7 months (but can be earlier or later — babies don’t read textbooks 😉)

Common Teething Signs:
✔️ Excessive drooling
✔️ Chewing on hands, toys, your shoulder… everything
✔️ Swollen, red, or tender gums
✔️ Mild irritability
✔️ Slight temperature increase (usually below 38°C)
✔️ Disrupted sleep
✔️ Rubbing cheeks or ears

💡 Why ear pulling happens in teething:
The nerves in the gums, jaw, and ears are connected. So gum pain can “travel,” making babies tug their ears even when the ear itself is fine.
Teething discomfort usually: • Comes and goes
• Improves with teething rings or gentle gum pressure
• Does NOT make your baby severely unwell

👂 EAR INFECTION (Otitis Media)

Ear infections are common, especially after colds. Fluid builds up behind the eardrum and causes pressure and pain.
Signs of an Ear Infection:
⚠️ Fever above 38°C
⚠️ Crying more when lying flat
⚠️ Sudden worsening after a cold
⚠️ Persistent ear pulling with obvious pain
⚠️ Poor feeding (sucking increases ear pressure)
⚠️ Trouble sleeping
⚠️ Irritability that doesn’t improve
⚠️ Fluid draining from the ear
Babies with ear infections often look uncomfortable and may be harder to settle.

🧐 Key Differences at a Glance

Teething: • Mild symptoms
• Low-grade or no fever
• Still playful between fussiness

Ear Infection: • Higher fever
• More intense crying
• Often follows a cold
• Child seems “more sick” overall

🚨 Red Flags – Call us If:
• Fever persists more than 24–48 hours
• Your baby is very drowsy or unusually irritable
• There is fluid or puss from the ear
• Pain seems severe
• Your instinct tells you something isn’t right
Trust your gut — you know your child best 💙

🏡 What You Can Do

For Teething: • Offer a chilled (not frozen) teething ring
• Gently rub gums with a clean finger
• Extra cuddles (always helpful!)

For Possible Ear Infection: • Keep baby upright when possible
• Offer fluids
• Seek medical evaluation if symptoms persist

✨ The Bottom Line:
Teething can make babies uncomfortable.

Ear infections can make babies miserable.

And sometimes… they happen at the same time (because parenting needs extra challenge mode 😅)

If you’re unsure, we’re always happy to take a look and give you peace of mind.

04/03/2026

3 March 2026

World hearing day
World birth defects day

Dr JW Robbetze Paediatrician

20/04/2026

06/04/2026

02/04/2026

23/03/2026

23/03/2026

19/03/2026

19/03/2026

18/03/2026

16/03/2026

12/03/2026

09/03/2026

04/03/2026

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Monday	07:30 - 17:00
Tuesday	07:30 - 17:00
Wednesday	07:30 - 17:00
Thursday	07:30 - 17:00
Friday	07:30 - 13:00