Food labels help us to make healthy and safe food choices. But there’s so much nutritional information on food labels that they can sometimes be confusing. Here’s how to read food labels and work out how healthy a food is – or isn’t.

Iodine is important for growth and development, especially in babies and children. Grown-ups need it too. To see whether you and your family are getting enough, start by checking your diet.

Primary health care providers should play a crucial role in early recognition of a child's developmental problems, coordination of support, childcare and family support.

Being the sibling of a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can be both a challenging and enriching experience. Here are some ideas for looking after typically developing siblings of children with ASD, ensuring they get your time and attention, and helping them understand more about ASD.

Down syndrome is a common genetic condition that causes intellectual disability and other physical and learning challenges. Screening and diagnostic tests during pregnancy can tell you about your child’s chance of having Down syndrome. Down syndrome can also be diagnosed at birth.Early intervention, regular health checks and family support can help children with Down syndrome grow up to lead happy, healthy and productive lives.

NICUs have highly trained medical and nursing staff and special equipment to care for premature babies and sick newborns. Each baby is closely monitored by an individual bedside nurse and other specialists. Most hospitals are family friendly and aim to involve parents.

The best way to check your child’s temperature is with a digital thermometer. Digital probe thermometers are the most accurate. They measure temperature under the tongue or armpit and sometimes rectally. Ear thermometers and temporal artery thermometers are easy to use but can be inaccurate.

Fever is a temperature higher than 38°C. It’s usually a sign of infection. Fevers in newborns and very young babies are serious and need medical attention. Most fevers in children don’t require medical attention. Keep children hydrated and give them pain medication if they’re uncomfortable.

It is normal for children to feel upset when they hear a new baby is coming. Talk early to your other children about the baby and involve them in planning and preparing. Try to keep children’s routines the same, especially in the early months. Introduce new routines gradually. When the new baby arrives, look for ways to make all children feel special.

Vitamin D helps bones grow, develop properly and stay strong. Children get most of their vitamin D from sunlight as well as a small amount from some foods. If you’re worried your child has a vitamin D deficiency, it’s a very good idea to talk with your GP.