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Child care

Expert parenting tips on everything from handling big conversations to getting the most out of play.

A father shares a moment with his daughter who is sitting on his lap.
UNICEF/UNI704043/Shelley Christians
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With every hug, conversation and game you play at home, you’re helping your child grow in so many ways. We’ve gathered expert guidance to support you with everything from playtime to strengthening your bond with your child and navigate big topics together.

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Tips for new parents
Tips for parents of teens
Play inspiration
Navigating big conversations
Parenting in an emergency
Protection and laws

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For new parents

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Baby sleep

Get the facts about parents’ most common questions

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Why do babies cry?

Learn how to translate your child’s first language

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7 questions every new parent has about babies

A baby expert answers some of parents' most searched for questions

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Low-data resources to empower parents

Supporting you in the most precious task of all – raising your child

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For parents of teens

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Supporting your child through a negative online experience

5 steps to respond and help support your child

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Teens and risky behaviour

How to support your teen while helping them to stay safe

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11 tips for communicating with your teen

How to approach conversations with empathy and understanding

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Four things you can do to support your teen’s mental health

Show your teen love and care, while looking after yourself

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Play inspiration

Supercharge your child's learning through the power of play.

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Power of Play

Play isn’t just fun – it’s essential for every child’s development

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Playtime, anytime!

Turn everyday routines into fun playful moments for learning and brain development

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The science of play

It’s not just fun – it’s fundamental to your child’s development

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Building babies’ brains through play

A Harvard professor's tips on how to boost your baby's brain development

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How babies learn through play

Discover why play is so important for babies' development

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How play strengthens your child’s mental health

Playful moments are essential for your little one’s emotional wellbeing

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Big conversations

Practical tips on how to navigate important topics with compassion and empathy.

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Bullying: What is it and how to stop it

How to prevent and deal with bullying

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How to talk to your child about climate change

Ways to engage children on the issue with hope and positivity

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How to talk to your children about hate speech

How to help your child recognize hate speech and know what to do when they encounter it

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How to talk to your child's school about bullying

Tips on engaging schools to prevent and deal with bullying

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Parenting in an emergency

Advice for navigating the most difficult times.

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Road safety tips

Expert advice for protecting your family

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How to support your child during crisis situations

Advice for navigating the most difficult times

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Flood safety information

What you need to know before, during and after the storm

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Heat wave safety tips

Learn how to help keep your children and family safe in extreme heat

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Protection and laws

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The Children's Act explained

Three booklets introducing the Children’s Act

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Protect children and help them heal

Information for parents and caregivers of children who have experienced trauma and abuse

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Psychological First Aid for children, adolescents & families

A guide for first responders

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Pamphlet: Child abuse

Depicting various forms of child abuse, outlines safety plans for children and gives advice as to how to respond to child abuse.

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Child development

With expert guidance and tips, we’re with you for every step of your child’s journey

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Health and wellbeing

Science-backed information for looking after your family’s health

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Food and nutrition

Learn how to set your child on a path to healthy habits for life

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UNICEF parenting

Helping parents give children in South Africa the best start in life.

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