Author: Vivienne Forbes

Recognising early signs of eating disorders is challenging in any child, but it can be especially complex in children on the autism spectrum. That’s because many behaviours associated with eating disorders—such as selective eating, rigid routines, or sensory sensitivities—can also be part of the neurodivergent profile. However, disordered eating can and does affect autistic children,…

At Complete Children’s Health, we understand just how important sleep is for growing bodies and minds. Sleep isn’t just about rest—it plays a vital role in your child’s development, supporting memory, emotional regulation, learning, growth, and immune health. Despite this, many children struggle with sleep at some stage, and when problems persist, they can begin…

At Complete Children’s Health, we know that clear and open communication betweenfamilies and doctors is one of the most powerful tools in a child’s healthcare journey. It’s notjust about sharing information—it’s about building trust, working as a team, and ensuringevery child gets the personalised care they deserve.We want to take a moment to acknowledge the…

As paediatricians, our primary goal is to keep children healthy and protected from preventable diseases. Vaccinations have been one of the most significant medical advancements in history, saving millions of lives and reducing the spread of deadly illnesses such as measles, whooping cough, and polio. Despite the overwhelming scientific evidence supporting their safety and effectiveness,…

Masking is a survival strategy that many autistic girls adopt to navigate social situations. Unlike their male counterparts, autistic girls—especially those without intellectual developmental delays—often become highly skilled at observing, mimicking, and adapting to social expectations. While this can help them blend in, it comes at a significant cost to their well-being. Masking requires a…

When a child is diagnosed with autism, it’s natural for parents to wonder how this will impact their life and what kind of support they might need. A common concern is when and how to share the diagnosis with the child. Since every autistic child is unique, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Why It’s Important to…

Starting a new school, changing schools, or moving classes can be both exciting and nerve-wracking for children. The unfamiliar environment, new routines, and meeting strangers can stir up a mix of emotions, often leading to anxiety. Crafting a personalised picture book about starting school is one creative and effective way to support your child through…