From bump to baby, to child & teenager, we're here to support at each milestone. We have advice, services & products to help care for children
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Understanding children's health
Understanding children’s health is crucial for parents, guardians and carers. Regular check-ups for babies and toddlers are vital for maintaining their wellbeing and monitoring growth and development. They are checked to ensure they meet important milestones and allow for early detection and treatment of potential health issues. Common childhood illnesses like coughs and colds, earache, stomach bugs and chickenpox can be a concern, so recognising symptoms early, and seeking medical advice when required, is important. Vaccinations play a critical role in safeguarding children against various diseases and reduce the risk of much more serious illness.
At Boots, we understand the importance of looking after your little ones. We offer a range of products, services and advice, from vitamins and supplements, to vaccination services and healthcare products to help support your child’s health.
On this page
EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT
Ring 999 when there is a medical emergency such as:
-Loss of consciousness
-Severe breathing difficulties
-Heavy bleeding
NHS 111
Ring NHS 111 non-emergency medical advice line if:
-You are unsure if you need to visit A&E
-For advice when your pharmacy, GP or dental practice is closed
GP SURGERY
Your first point of contact for the health issues you can't treat yourself or, with the help of your local pharmacy
PHARMACY
For advice & over-the-counter medicines for a range of minor illnesses, such as:
-Cough & colds
-Sore throat
-Tummy upset
-Aches & pains
SELF-CARE
For common injuries & illnesses like:
-Grazed knee
-Sore throat
-Colds
Childhood illnesses
Common conditions
Baby & toddler
Top tips
As a parent/guardian, we appreciate it can be an anxious time to bring your child to have their vaccination, and the tips below may help make your child’s vaccination appointment go as smoothly as possible.
Pre-appointment
Have a discussion with your child so they are aware they will be visiting the Pharmacy to see a Healthcare Professional for their vaccination.
Ensure to have an open discussion, listening to their thoughts including any concerns they may have ahead of their vaccination, to try to reassure them. Any concerns can be discussed further with the Healthcare Professional at the start of the appointment.
Dress your child in loose or short sleeves as they will usually have their vaccination into their upper arm.
Plan your journey to the appointment in advance, allowing yourself plenty of time so that you are not rushing; this could help ensure that your child doesn’t feel stressed or anxious.
Consider a distraction technique: think of your child’s favourite book, toy, blanket or song that may help to distract them during the appointment. Where applicable, bring this to the appointment.
During the appointment
It is natural to be worried when you are taking your child to receive a vaccination. Try to remain calm. If you are feeling anxious, your child may pick up on this.
Comfort your child with the distraction technique of your choosing. This will help them to focus on you and not solely on the vaccination.
Listen carefully to the Healthcare Professional and follow any instructions regarding positioning/holding your child to maintain safety for you, your child and the Healthcare Professional. This will also make your child feel comfortable and safe.
Ask any questions you may have and if you don’t understand anything, please ask for clarification.
Try to keep your child as calm as possible with your distraction technique or by discussing plans for the rest of the day. Smiling and making eye contact with your child is likely to make them feel safe and that everything is ok.
Post appointment
Once your child has received the vaccination, it is common especially in younger children for them to be upset. Be supportive of them. Hold and cuddle your child. A soothing voice, combined with praise will help to reassure your child.
Services to support your child
Frequently asked questions
Good healthcare is important for children because it can help them to grow up healthy and thrive. Regular check-ups with a GP not only support their physical, and mental development but can also provide an opportunity to catch any potential health concerns early, making sure that children get the care they need when they need it most.
Preventive measures, like vaccinations, can play a vital role in protecting them from common childhood illnesses. Good healthcare sets the foundation for a child’s future wellbeing and success, giving parents peace of mind that their little ones are on the right path.
Registering your child with a GP is simple. Once you’ve chosen a GP surgery, you’ll need to fill out a registration form. You can usually find this on:
- The NHS app
- The GP surgery’s website
- The GP surgery’s profile page on the NHS website
You can also get a paper form from the surgery. If you have a red book (their personal child health record), this can also help when registering them. You might be asked to show ID to prove that you’re their parent or guardian.
Good nutrition is key to a child’s development. A balanced, varied and healthy diet can help children grow, learn, maintain a healthy weight, stay active and feel good. For healthy snack options, you can try fresh fruit, vegetables, yoghurt or whole-grain crackers.
Refer back up to the ‘common conditions’ section of the page. Common health conditions in children can include colds, ear infections, sore throats and chickenpox. We’ve got more advice, services and products on this page.
12Selected UK Boots pharmacies, subject to availability. Eligibility criteria apply. Please note this is not an NHS service.
9 Eligibility criteria and charges apply. Available in selected pharmacies, subject to availability.
32 Supply of treatment is subject to a suitability assessment. In most stores in England only. Subject to availability and store opening hours. Charges may apply.
†The Hygiene Bank is a registered charity in:
England and Wales number: 1181267
Scotland number: SC049895
Buy one get one free across selected vitamins and supplements. Offer available 7th November 2024. Excludes pharmacy medicines, bundles and items on prescription. Online only. Cheapest free. Quantity limits apply. 3 for 2 offer will still run in store, but not on boots.com. Food supplements should not replace a healthy diet and an active lifestyle.
