Kids Health Info

The 2026 flu update with Dr Nigel Crawford 27.05.2026 15Min.

Flu season is here again and to unpack some of the myths and confusion about the flu, our host Dr Anthea Rhodes is joined by paediatrician and immunisation specialist, Dr Nigel Crawford. With the latest release of The Royal Children’s Hospital National Child Health Poll finding that a quarter of parents (29%) are unaware that healthy children can get seriously unwell with the flu, it is more important than ever to know the facts when it comes to the flu. This episode unpacks the best ways you can keep your family safe this winter and provides information about the new intranasal flu vaccination available for children aged 2 – 17 years. Kids Health Info is funded thanks to the support of the Good Friday Appeal Explore related Kids Health Info fact sheets here: Kids health info fact sheet: Kids Health Info : Flu (influenza) vaccine Learn more about vaccine options in your state here: Victoria: https://www.health.vic.gov.au/immunisation/seasonal-influenza-vaccine New South Wales: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/Influenza/Pages/default.aspx South Australia: https://www.sahealth.sa.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/public+content/sa+health+internet/healthy+living/protecting+your+health/preventing+disease+and+infection/free+flu+vaccination+for+children+under+5/free+flu+vaccination+for+children+under+5 Tasmania: https://www.health.tas.gov.au/health-topics/flu-influenza/flu-vaccination Western Australia: https://www.health.wa.gov.au/articles/f_i/influenza-immunisation-program Queensland: https://www.qld.gov.au/health/staying-healthy/2026-free-flu-vaccinations Northern Territory: https://nt.gov.au/wellbeing/healthy-living/immunisation/flu-vaccination

Sleep and Behaviour with Dr Matt Bisset 18.05.2026 20Min.

We all know how it feels to not get enough sleep. We’re grumpy, irritable and simply not our best selves. As an adult it’s easy to describe, but what about when kids don’t get enough sleep? In this episode, host Dr Anthea Rhodes is joined by clinical psychologist Dr Matt Bisset to unpack the powerful link between sleep, emotions, and behaviour in children. Learn how sleep needs change across childhood, the signs that tiredness may be driving behavioural challenges, and practical strategies parents can use to support healthy sleep routines and calmer days. Kids Health Info is funded thanks to the support of the Good Friday Appeal Explore related Kids Health Info fact sheets here: Kids Health Info : Sleep problems - babies and toddlers

Big feelings in little people with Dr Tamera Clancy 13.05.2026 21Min.

Why do young children feel their emotions in such big and dramatic ways, and how can parents support them through those overwhelming moments? In this episode, host Dr Anthea Rhodes is joined by clinical psychologist Dr Tamera Clancy to explore emotional development in the early years. Learn why toddlers and preschoolers experience emotions so intensely, what’s happening in their brains as they grow, and the practical ways parents can help children recognise, express, and regulate their feelings. Kids Health Info is funded thanks to the support of the Good Friday Appeal Explore related Kids Health Info fact sheets here: Kids Health Info : Challenging behaviour – toddlers and young children

Autism and neurodiversity with Dr Toby Rheinberger 06.05.2026 21Min.

What does autism look like in children, and how can parents better understand neurodiversity? In this episode, host Dr Anthea Rhodes is joined by developmental paediatrician Dr Toby Rheinberger to explore the many ways autistic traits can present across childhood. Discover how autism may show up at different ages, what strengths and challenges can accompany neurodivergence, and how families can support their child’s development, communication, and wellbeing. Kids Health Info is funded thanks to the support of the Good Friday Appeal. For more information related to autism and neurodiversity, visit Amaze: What is Autism - Amaze - Shaping the future for autism

Teens and food 29.04.2026 20Min.

Ever wondered if your teen needs supplements, protein powders or other special dietary tweaks? This episode pulls together the information you need. Getting teens to consume a balanced and nutritious diet isn’t always easy. They might be going straight to sport after school with little time to eat or they could be snacking before dinner and not so interested in the nutritious meal you’re serving up at dinner. If you’re facing challenges in supporting your teen to get their three and five (that’s fruit and vegetables), then join host Dr Anthea Rhodes and guest, Paediatric Dietitian Tayla Rabie for a chat about helping teens to make nutritious food choices. Kids Health Info is funded thanks to the support of the Good Friday Appeal. Explore related Kids Health Info fact sheets here: Kids health info fact sheets: Nutrition – teens and young people Information to share with your teenager: Teen Health Info : Food and nutrition – eating a balanced diet

Could it be anxiety? with Dr Grace McMahon 22.04.2026 21Min.

Have you ever wondered if your child could be showing signs of anxiety? Anxiety can show up in many ways for children and in this episode our host Dr Anthea Rhodes is joined by clinical psychologist Dr Grace McMahon to unpack these symptoms. Learn about the ways in which anxiety can show up for children at different ages and stages, what might be driving it, and how parents can navigate anxiety in their children. Kids Health Info is funded thanks to the support of the Good Friday Appeal. Explore related Kids Health Info fact sheets here: Kids Health Info : Anxiety in children

ADHD and attention challenges with Dr Bernice Dodds 22.04.2026 17Min.

If you’ve ever found yourself thinking “I’m not sure my child is reaching their full potential”, you might be one of the many parents who is concerned about attention challenges. In this episode our host Dr Anthea Rhodes is joined by Clinical Neuropsychologist Dr Bernice Dodds to unpack the experiences of families who might be navigating an ADHD diagnosis or other attention challenges. Learn about the signs you might want to keep an eye out for and the support available to you and your family as we explore this topic. Kids Health Info is funded thanks to the support of the Good Friday Appeal Explore related Kids Health Info fact sheets here: Kids Health Info : Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

ADHD and attention challenges with Dr Bernice Dodds 22.04.2026 17Min.

If you’ve ever found yourself thinking “I’m not sure my child is reaching their full potential”, you might be one of the many parents who is concerned about attention challenges. In this episode our host Dr Anthea Rhodes is joined by Clinical Neuropsychologist Dr Bernice Dodds to unpack the experiences of families who might be navigating an ADHD diagnosis or other attention challenges. Learn about the signs you might want to keep an eye out for and the support available to you and your family as we explore this topic. Kids Health Info is funded thanks to the support of the Good Friday Appeal. Explore related Kids Health Info fact sheets here: Kids Health Info : Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

The good enough parent with Dr Caitlyn Gourlay 13.04.2026 26Min.

Parents often feel like they need to be everything to everyone and do it all perfectly. This can be overwhelming as it is but add medical complexities or behavioural challenges and stress can reach boiling point. In this episode our host Dr Anthea Rhodes is joined by Clinical Psychologist Dr Caitlyn Gourlay to explain what it means to be a ‘good enough parent’ and what your kids really need from you. This episode is packed with simple tips and advice, as well as information about resources that parents can explore to find support. Kids Health Info is funded thanks to the support of the Good Friday Appeal In this episode, Dr Caitlyn mentioned a few resources. Here are some that parents may wish to explore: Tuning into kids: https://www.kidsfirstaustralia.org.au/program/tuning-into-kids/ Tuning into teens: https://www.relationshipsvictoria.org.au/child-parenting-courses/tint-kew/ Circle of Security: https://www.circleofsecurityinternational.com/blogs/resources/tagged/parents This way up: https://thiswayup.org.au/ If you’re located outside of Victoria and seeking support, we recommend contacting your local council to explore programs that may be available to you. For more information, search ‘Kids Health Info’ to access our fact sheets.

Nicotine and your teen 04.02.2026 16Min.

Australian teens learn about the dangers of smoking in the classroom, but is there an extra role for parents to play? In this episode of the Kids Health Info podcast, our host, Dr Anthea Rhodes, is joined by Respiratory Specialist, Dr Moya Vandeleur, to explain the facts about nicotine that parents need to know. Exploring the challenges that parents face in having conversations with their teens about cigarettes, vapes and oral nicotine pouches, this episode covers the impacts these products can have and unpacks the myth that there is any ‘healthy’ form of nicotine consumption. Parents seeking support to navigate the quitting process with their teens can visit: https://www.quit.org.au/en Kids Health Info is funded thanks to the support of the Good Friday Appeal. Explore more by reading our Kids Health Info fact sheet and share our Teen Health Info fact sheet with your young person.

When fever leads to seizure: Febrile convulsions 16.12.2025 14Min.

Few things are more frightening for a parent than seeing their child have a seizure — especially when it’s unexpected and linked to a fever. In this episode, host Dr Anthea Rhodes is joined by Emergency Department doctor Sandy Hopper to help parents understand febrile seizure. They explain what febrile seizures are, why they happen, how common they are, and what parents should do if their child experiences one. With calm, clear advice and expert insight, this episode helps parents understand the difference between febrile convulsions and other types of seizures and offers reassurance about what to expect if it happens to your child. Kids Health Info is funded thanks to the support of the Good Friday Appeal. Explore related Kids Health Info fact sheets here: Kids Health Info : Febrile seizures

Social media restrictions have arrived – now what? 10.12.2025 24Min.

The social media delay is now in place and Australian teens aged under 16 will no longer be able to access some online platforms. But now what? How can parents support their teens through this transition and what else should they be doing to make sure their children can thrive in an increasingly online world? Host Dr Anthea Rhodes is joined by Paul Clark, Executive Manager, Education Prevention and Communities at the eSafety Commission to discuss what parents need to know about these topics and more. In an ever-changing world it can feel challenging to know what to teach your children about online safety and what you should be doing to support them. This episode contains some simple tips that families can put in place to help set their children up for success and safety. Parents can learn more about screen time and social media here: Kids Health Info : Screen time and social media – teens and young people We have also developed a version of this fact sheet that you can share with your teen: Teen Health Info : Screen time and social media Learn more about the regulations and support available at eSafety.gov.au: Social media age restrictions hub | eSafety Commissioner If you or your teen need to speak to someone, there is support available: Kids Helpline: Kids Helpline | Phone Counselling Service | 1800 55 1800 Lifeline: Home | Lifeline Headspace: headspace National Youth Mental Health Foundation Kids Health Info is funded thanks to the support of the Good Friday Appeal.

Sun safety myths uncovered 02.12.2025 19Min.

Sunscreen has been in the spotlight over the past few months, making it tough for parents to know what products they can trust to keep their kids safe. In this bonus episode of the Kids Health Info podcast, our host, Dr Anthea Rhodes, is joined by Dr Susan Robertson, Director of Dermatology at The Royal Children’s Hospital to unpack some of the mystery surrounding sun protection. Exploring ways to keep your family safe this summer, they unpack how you can check the sunscreen you have purchased and explain the other essential steps you should be taking to protect yourself and your family from harmful sun exposure. In the episode, the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods was discussed. You can check the ARTG number of any product by visiting their website: Searching the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) | Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) Kids Health Info is funded thanks to the support of the Good Friday Appeal. Explore related Kids Health Info fact sheets here: Kids health info fact sheet: https://www.rch.org.au/kidsinfo/fact_sheets/Sun_safety/ Information to share with your teenager: https://www.rch.org.au/teeninfo/fact-sheets/Staying_safe_in_the_sun

Thunderstorm asthma: why it happens and how to prepare 30.11.2025 7Min.

Thunderstorms and asthma might seem like an unlikely pair — but for some children, stormy weather can trigger sudden and severe breathing problems. In this episode, host Dr Anthea Rhodes is joined by Emergency Department specialist Dr Tristan Harding to unpack the phenomenon of thunderstorm asthma. They explain what it is, why it happens, which children are most at risk, and how parents can prepare during storm season. Whether your child has asthma, hay fever, or just gets a bit wheezy, this episode offers practical advice to help everyone breathe easier when the winds pick up. Kids Health Info is funded thanks to the support of the Good Friday Appeal. Explore related Kids Health Info fact sheets here: Kids Health Info : Thunderstorm asthma Check the forecast for thunderstorm asthma by using the Melbourne Pollen App: Mobile App - Melbourne Pollen

Bites, stings and what to do next 27.11.2025 16Min.

From backyard bee stings to jellyfish encounters at the beach, bites and stings are a common reason kids end up in the Emergency Department. In this episode, host Dr Anthea Rhodes is joined by Emergency Department doctor Tristan Harding to explore what parents need to know about bites and stings — including insect bites, spider bites, snake bites, and marine stingers like jellyfish. They discuss what’s mild, what’s serious, and what to do in the moment. Whether it’s swelling, pain, or a potential allergic reaction, this episode helps parents feel prepared and confident when nature gets a little too close. Kids Health Info is funded thanks to the support of the Good Friday Appeal Explore related Kids Health Info fact sheets here: Kids Health Info : Insect bites and stings

Rashes and reactions: When to worry 26.11.2025 24Min.

Rashes are a common concern for parents — but not all rashes are cause for alarm. In this episode, host Dr Anthea Rhodes is joined by Emergency Department Dr Fiona Reilly to unpack the wide world of rashes in children. They explore what different rashes can mean, which ones are linked to infections, allergies or serious illness, and how to tell when a rash needs urgent medical attention. Whether it’s spots, bumps, blotches or hives, this episode helps parents feel more confident navigating the skin signs that can leave them guessing. Kids Health Info is funded thanks to the support of the Good Friday Appeal. Explore related Kids Health Info fact sheets here: Kids Health Info : Rashes Parents seeking more information about eczema can visit our Kids Health Info fact sheet on the topic here: Kids Health Info : Eczema (atopic dermatitis)

Medicine meltdowns: what can parents do? 05.11.2025 18Min.

Giving medicine to children can be one of the most stressful parts of parenting — especially when they refuse, spit it out, or cry at the sight of a syringe. In this episode, host Dr Anthea Rhodes is joined by Dr Amanda Stock from our Emergency Department to explore the common challenges parents face when giving medicine to kids. They share practical tips for making the process smoother and advice on how parents can feel in control of these situations. Whether it’s antibiotics, pain relief, or allergy treatments this episode helps parents feel more confident and less alone in the medicine struggle. Kids Health Info is funded thanks to the support of the Good Friday Appeal Explore related Kids Health Info fact sheets here: KidsHealthInfo Factsheets: How to give your child medicine Lean about pill swallowing techniques for kids here: RCHTV: A child's guide to hospital: oral medications KidzMed: e-learning for healthcare

Penis pain in the Emergency Department 27.10.2025 14Min.

Penis pain in children can be alarming for parents and confusing for kids — but not all causes are serious. In this episode, host Dr Anthea Rhodes is joined by Emergency Department Doctor, Bec Hughes to unpack the common reasons children can present to the ED with pain in the penis. Unpacking the conditions and injuries that can lead families to head to the Emergency Department, they explore what to look out for and when to seek help. A must-listen for any parent wanting to feel more confident navigating this sensitive topic. Note: across the course of the episode our doctors mostly refer to ‘children’ rather than using gendered terms. This decision was made to ensure the information supports all children who may be impacted by these concerns. Kids Health Info is funded thanks to the support of the Good Friday Appeal. Explore related Kids Health Info fact sheets here: Kids Health Info : Penis and foreskin care

Online health information – what can you trust? 12.08.2025 13Min.

When you search for health information online, how can you tell if it is true? When you see a post on social media, what signs should you look for to make sure the advice can be trusted? It’s not always easy to navigate online sources when you’re seeking support for your child’s health. Listen in for some simple tips you can follow to make sure you’re ready to spot mis- and disinformation when it appears. In this bonus episode of the Kids Health Info Podcast, your host Dr Anthea Rhodes is joined by Paediatrician, Dr Alex Cussen, whose experience in the Department of Adolescent Medicine provides her with insight into the challenges faced by young people exploring health information online. To support young people and their parents, the Royal Children's Hospital has developed new fact sheets that tackle topical health issues and questions commonly encountered when it comes to teens health. Explore our teen health info fact sheets here: Teen Health Info : Teen Health Info fact sheets Kids Health Info is funded thanks to the support of the Good Friday Appeal.

Gastro and why it peaks in winter 06.05.2025 16Min.

Poos and spews. Voms and bombs. We all know the feeling of stress and discomfort when one of your children comes down with gastro. But how can you best look after your child and the whole family when gastro arrives in your home? Tune in for some tips on keeping up the fluids and how to stop the spread. Dr Anthea Rhodes is joined by Emergency Department Specialist at the RCH, Dr Tom Glover, to provide some helpful advice for getting through a bout of gastro in the household. This episode is part seven of our winter wellness season. Listen to the full season to prepare your family for the cooler months. Each episode contains useful tips about illnesses that spread more often in winter. Kids Health Info is funded thanks to the support of the Good Friday Appeal Explore related Kids Health Info fact sheets here: Kids Health Info : Gastroenteritis (gastro)