Complete Children's Health

09/04/2026

Play is often thought of as pretend games, sport or social interaction — but it’s much more than that. Research shows play is a mindset as well as an activity: something we choose, enjoy and are naturally driven to do. It supports brain development, emotional strength and overall well-being across life.

For autistic individuals, play may look different from typical expectations. It might include repetitive movement, exploring patterns, deep focus on a special interest, sensory play like spinning or water activities, or playing alongside others rather than directly with them.

These forms of play are meaningful and valuable, supporting learning, regulation and self-expression in ways that work best for the individual child.

07/04/2026

Have a chat with your GP - it is not free in Victoria but worth a conversation.

It's been available in the northern hemisphere for years, now Australian children can receive a nasal spray vaccine for the flu.

07/04/2026

💛 Is your child more vulnerable to bullying? Here’s how you can support them.

New research shows some kids are more likely to experience bullying because of social, family and health factors — including:
• struggling to make friends
• anxiety, depression or ADHD
• learning differences
• being overweight
• adjusting to a new culture or school

If your child fits any of these, bullying isn’t inevitable — and your support can make a big difference.
What parents can do:
✨ Keep communication open
Regular, low-pressure check-ins help kids feel safe talking about what’s really going on.
✨ Build their social confidence
Encourage activities they enjoy — sport, art, music, gaming or clubs where they can connect with like-minded kids.
✨ Take mental health seriously
If your child seems anxious, withdrawn or low, early support from your GP, psychologist or school counsellor can be life-changing.
✨ Work with the school
If bullying is happening, involve teachers or wellbeing staff early. A calm, collaborative approach usually works best.
✨ Remind them it’s not their fault
Being “different” is not a weakness — and bullying is never something your child has caused.

Strong family support and early action really matter. 💛If this resonates, you’re not alone — and help is always available.

05/04/2026

We hope you’re enjoying a lovely Easter and some well-deserved time with family and friends. 🐣

Complete Children’s Health is closed today for Easter Monday and will reopen tomorrow.

If you need urgent support in the meantime, please seek care through the RCH or your local GP if required.

02/04/2026

Wishing all our families a warm and happy Easter from the team at Complete Children’s Health.

We hope the long weekend brings you time to rest, reconnect and enjoy simple moments together — whether that’s a family meal, a quiet day at home or a bit of chocolate-fuelled fun with the kids.

We are currently closed and reopen on Tuesday, the 7th of April. 🐣

31/03/2026

📱 Feeling like screens are taking over at home?

You’re not alone. A new article from CNBC shares 3 simple, realistic ways parents can help reduce kids’ screen time — without turning the house into a battleground.

Here’s the short version:

✨ Lead by example
Kids copy what they see. Cutting back on your own scrolling sends a powerful message.

📞 Share devices
Instead of every child having their own phone, try a shared family phone or device to encourage real conversations and fewer mindless hours online.

⏳ Delay smartphones
Waiting a bit longer before giving kids their own phone can help build healthier tech habits — and a lot more independence.

It’s not about banning screens. It’s about balance, boundaries and helping kids spend more time in the real world 🌱

What’s worked in your house? 👇

29/03/2026

Emotion cards can help children show how they’re feeling, especially if they are non-speaking or don’t yet have the words to explain their emotions. Using pictures of facial expressions gives them a simple, positive way to communicate without relying on language alone.

For example, if a favourite toy breaks or they feel left out of a game, pointing to an image that matches their feelings can help adults understand what’s going on and offer support.

Some children also respond well to emotion charts with a simple scale and matching coping strategies. This helps them recognise when feelings are building and gives them clear steps to calm and regulate in a way that works for them.

27/03/2026

When emotions start to build or a loud, busy classroom feels overwhelming, simple wellbeing strategies can help children settle and feel safe again.

One approach often used in schools is sensory circuits — a sequence of short activities completed in order. It usually begins with a burst of movement, such as star jumps or another energetic task. This is followed by something that requires concentration, like walking along a marked line or balancing. The final step focuses on calming the body and mind, perhaps through quiet music, deep breathing or a gentle walk. Some teachers even turn the activities into a game, with children moving through each step as they go.

Moving through these different energy levels helps children regulate their emotions and refocus. Over time, it also supports them to build confidence and develop their own strategies for managing big feelings more independently.

26/03/2026

Children with social and emotional needs can become very skilled at “masking” in the classroom or during social situations. They might stay unusually quiet, copy what others are doing or hide their anxiety and frustration, which can make it difficult to recognise when they’re finding things hard.

Studies suggest that when students don’t feel a strong sense of belonging at school, they’re more likely to mask how they’re feeling. Over time, this can increase anxiety and make their challenges less visible to the adults around them.

Having one trusted, consistent adult — whether a teacher or support staff member — can make a big difference. It creates a safe space where subtle changes are more easily noticed and the reasons behind withdrawn or challenging behaviour can be better understood.

When masking is recognised early, children can be supported to develop healthier coping strategies, build confidence and feel more secure in their school environment.

24/03/2026

Why do children hit other children?
A quick guide for parents and carers 👇

Little ones don’t hit because they’re “naughty” — they hit because they’re still learning how to handle big feelings and tricky moments. Some common reasons include:

😣 They’re overwhelmed.
Too much noise, too many people, or too much excitement can tip them over the edge.

😤 They don’t have the words yet.
When communication skills lag behind emotions, hands often speak first.

🧸 They’re protecting something important.
A toy, a turn, a favourite spot — and they don’t know how to negotiate it yet.

🥱 They’re tired or hungry.
Low energy = low patience.

🧠 They’re copying what they’ve seen.
Kids learn by imitation — at home, at daycare, even on TV.

🤯 Their impulse control isn’t fully developed.
The part of the brain that says “stop and think” is still under construction.

👉 The good news?
Hitting isn’t a sign of a “bad child.” It’s a sign they need guidance, practice and calm support. When adults respond consistently — with boundaries, empathy and teaching — kids learn safer ways to express themselves.

22/03/2026

👂 Ear health matters more than many parents realise.

Children who have hearing loss or frequent ear infections can find it harder to copy sounds and develop speech in the usual way.

The tricky part? These issues aren’t always obvious. Ongoing fluid in the ears, repeated infections, or hearing loss present from birth can quietly affect how a child picks up language.

💬 At Complete Children’s Health, we work closely with ENT specialists to identify and manage ear and hearing concerns early — so kids get the support they need for healthy speech and language development.

If you’re worried about your child’s hearing, speech or frequent ear infections, we’re here to help. 💛

20/03/2026

🥛 Is whole milk a good choice for kids?

For most children over 12 months, whole milk can be a healthy part of their diet. It provides protein, calcium and vitamin D, which all support growth and strong bones.

That said, milk shouldn’t crowd out other important foods. Too much can reduce appetite for meals that provide iron and other key nutrients.

What parents should keep in mind:
• Whole milk is usually recommended after age 1
• Balance matters — milk is one part of a varied diet
• If you have concerns about weight, allergies or iron levels, it’s worth checking in with your GP or paediatrician

Bottom line: whole milk can be a helpful addition — just not the whole picture. 💛