Bladder and bowel health for children
Children can often have bladder and bowel health problems. These problems may be developmental or social. Find out what these problems are and how you can manage them.
Bladder and bowel for children
Chronic conditions
Chronic conditions are long-term health issues that often begin in childhood or adolescence, affecting development, education, and quality of life. Common examples include:
- asthma
- type 1 diabetes
- epilepsy
- cystic fibrosis
- juvenile idiopathic arthritis
- mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression and eating disorders.
Supporting children and young people with these chronic conditions is vital for their long-term health and wellbeing.
Dental health
Dental health is important for general health and wellbeing. Poor dental health can affect children’s nutrition and social life and lead to more costly dental care and oral disease in the future. Children aged 0 to 17 who are eligible for the Child Dental Benefits Schedule can access a capped benefit for basic dental services.
Ear health and hearing
Ear and hearing health is important to health and wellbeing. Untreated hearing loss and ear disease can have a big impact on children’s lives, such as their ability to develop language, engage socially and at school. All children with diagnosed hearing loss are eligible for support under the Community Service Obligations component of the Hearing Services Program.
Family, domestic and sexual violence
Family, domestic and sexual violence, including child sexual abuse, can have serious impacts on the health and wellbeing of children. Learn more about this topic and why it is important.
About family, domestic and sexual violence
Food and nutrition
Good food and nutrition are important to health and wellbeing, reducing the risk of disease and promoting healthy development in children. Find out more about how to choose the right foods and servings for children.
Immunisation
Vaccinations are important to protect children from serious diseases, some of which may threaten their lives. Free vaccinations are available for eligible children aged 0 to 4 and adolescents 12 to 16 years through the National Immunisation Program. Parents and carers can check the National Immunisation Program Schedule for their child’s recommended vaccinations.
Mental health
Mental health in kids refers to a child’s social and emotional wellbeing. Having good mental health is important for healthy child development and wellbeing.
Overweight and obesity
Overweight and obesity is a public health issue and is a risk factor for many chronic conditions. Find out more about overweight and obesity in Australian children.
Palliative care
Special end-of-life (palliative) care is available for children and their families. Learn more about finding the right type of palliative care.
Palliative care for children and young people
Physical activity and sleep
Physical activity and sleep are important for children to maintain good physical and mental health and wellbeing. It is important for children to grow healthy and set good habits for life. Find out more about physical activity, sleep, exercise and screen use guidelines.
Physical activity and exercise guidelines
Pregnancy, birth and baby
Learn about giving your child the best start in life. From planning a healthy pregnancy to caring for your newborn, the choices you make now shape your baby’s growth, development and future health.
Smoking, vaping and tobacco
Children and young people exposed to second-hand smoke and vapour from e-cigarettes, also known as vapes, are at greater risk of serious health and development problems. Find out what these risks are and what you can do as a parent or carer to reduce them.