You and your family
Your child’s health and wellbeing
Your child's health and wellbeing support everything they do.
From learning and playing to building relationships and confidence, as they grow, routines and habits start to become more established.
Keeping your child safe will be a priority for you – but there is so much to think about. The Lullaby Trust has some advice.
What you might notice
From around 2 to 3 years
- developing routines for sleep, meals and play
- becoming more independent
- showing preferences for food and activities
From around 3 to 4 years
- more settled routines
- increased confidence and independence
- growing awareness of health and hygiene
All children follow their own path, and progress can come in bursts.
Why health and wellbeing matters
Good health and wellbeing help your child to:
- grow and develop physically and emotionally
- build healthy habits for life
- feel safe, secure and confident
- learn and explore the world
Healthy routines and early support make a big difference.
How you can support your child
You don't need to be perfect. Small, everyday actions help support your child’s health and wellbeing.
Support healthy routines
- keep regular times for meals, sleep and activities
- offer a balanced diet
- encourage active play every day
Look after their health
- keep up to date with immunisations
- attend health checks and reviews
- support good habits like handwashing and brushing teeth
Encourage rest and sleep
- keep a calm and consistent bedtime routine
- allow time to rest as well as play
Support emotional wellbeing
- spend time together
- offer comfort and reassurance
- help your child understand feelings
Small everyday routines help your child feel secure and support healthy development.
Trust your instincts – you know your child best
You may want to speak to someone if:
- you're concerned about your child's health or development
- you notice changes in eating, sleep or behaviour
- you have any questions about routines or wellbeing
You don't need to wait. Speak to your health visitor or GP if you have any questions.
Resources and support
- Anna Freud – child mental health resources for parents
- YoungMinds – parent advice on wellbeing and mental health
- Oxfordshire Mind – support for parents (helping your child's wellbeing)
- Oxford Health – parent emotional health and wellbeing support
- Oxford Parent Infant Project – parent infant relationships and bonding support
Pop into one of our family hubs
Family hubs provide ongoing support after your baby arrives, including activities, family services and opportunities to meet other parents.
Family Information Service
There are many groups, clubs and activities for children and their families across Oxfordshire. Take a look at some of them near you.
Activities for children.
If you feel you need a little extra help
At times, children and families need a bit of extra support – and when that happens, it’s ok to ask for help.
You could be worried about your health or the health of your children, you could have financial worries or be caring for someone. You’re not alone. Take a look at our early help pages for advice on how we can help support you.
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