Full body

Here is some information about how children's communication skills usually develop by the age of 1. Below are some activity suggestions to encourage communication from 1 year. Use the language that you are most familiar and comfortable with.

Hearing is a critical part of a child's communication development so it's important to identify any loss as early as possible.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for tamariki (children) with cerebral palsy is unproven and not recommended.

Scientists are studying stem cells to see if they can help repair or replace damaged tissues, such as nerves and muscle. Researchers continue to explore how stem cell treatments might help people with cerebral palsy.

The presence of pain can affect all aspects of a child or young person's life and have a big impact on their whānau (family).

Rewards can really motivate a child to improve their behaviour. They work best when given soon after the behaviour, not days later.

The best thing that you can do if your child has a nightmare is comfort them. Following most nightmares, a few minutes of comfort will reassure your child.

Night terrors are scary to watch but usually harmless to tamariki (children). The most important thing to do when your child has a night terror is to keep your child safe.

Check out some strategies for managing insomnia in tamariki (children). Good sleep habits are important for tamariki who have problems falling asleep (insomnia).

If your child feels anxious about sleep or staying in their bedroom, the 'checking method' might help.

If your child is anxious about going to sleep, the ‘camping out’ method may help. Sit on a chair or camp bed next to your child’s bed and gradually move further away as your child learns to fall asleep on their own.

For tamariki (children) who find it hard to stay in their bedroom or who call out, a bedtime pass may help.

Putting tamariki (children) to bed when they are not tired can lead to bedtime struggles. For some tamariki, it helps to start with a bedtime close to when they usually fall asleep, then gradually make it earlier.

Sleep is important for children's learning and behaviour. Sleep also helps children's brains grow.

Anxiety is likely a common reason for trouble falling asleep at night and staying asleep. Find out about strategies you can use to help your child.

Your child's continuing education is important when they are in hospital or sick at home for an extended period of time.