Children's health: practical, gentle, naturopathic
Reviewed by the naturopathic team at Nourishing Apothecary, led by Jaime Chew.
Parenting comes with a constant stream of small health questions. Why won't they sleep? Why are they eating so little? Why do they keep getting sick? Our children's articles are where we share what we see in clinic and the gentle naturopathic principles we work with when families come to us for support.
Children's health is sensitive territory. Always discuss any specific concerns about your child with your GP or paediatrician first. The articles here are educational and sit alongside, not in place of, paediatric medical care.
Breastfeeding and development
What's happening biologically in those early months, and why it matters.
Reducing microplastics at home
Five simple swaps families can make to lower everyday plastic exposure.
Everything we share here is grounded in real consultations with real families. We write about kids' nutrition, gut health, sleep foundations and fussy eating, drawing on what we see in clinic each week. We always work alongside your GP, paediatrician or specialist team where relevant. If you're not sure where to start, our children's health consultations are one option families can explore.
Frequently asked
Questions we hear in clinic
Is naturopathy safe for children?
Yes, when guided by a qualified naturopath who works with children. We use lower doses, gentler herbs and forms appropriate for little bodies. Children's natural health products are designed specifically for paediatric use and we always work alongside your GP or paediatrician where relevant.
At what age can a child see a naturopath?
We see children from infancy onwards. The approach changes depending on age. For infants, much of the focus is around feeding, sleep patterns and the parent's nutrition if breastfeeding. For toddlers and older children, we look at nutrition, gut health and the lifestyle foundations that support overall wellbeing.
How can I support the basics of my child's wellbeing?
The foundations are well-known: regular sleep, varied real food, time outdoors and good basics like adequate vitamin D and zinc through diet and sunlight. These are the same things every paediatrician will tell you. When parents come to us, we start by looking at these foundations together. If anything specific is going on with your child's health, your GP is always the right first port of call.
My child is a fussy eater. Should I be worried?
Some food selectivity is developmentally normal, particularly between ages two and six. Most children move through it. If you're concerned about how restricted their eating is, or you're noticing it's affecting their growth, mood or family life, the first step is a conversation with your GP or paediatrician. They can rule out medical causes and refer to a specialist team if needed. Naturopathic care can complement that team to support nutrition and the wider picture.



























