This evidence-based text explores children’s health and wellbeing from birth to adolescence, taking into account the familial, cultural, social, economic, environmental and global contexts of their lives.

Divided into three parts, this book draws on an international body of research and theoretical perspectives on the determinants of health, such as hereditary, socioeconomic, environmental, geopolitical, gender and cross-cultural factors. It begins with an overview of child health and wellbeing before exploring global influences on health. The second part of the book focuses on health promotion and safeguarding. The final part looks at a range of health conditions that may impact children’s health, including infectious diseases, chronic health conditions and mental health. The book ends with a discussion of the role and contribution of families, carers, health professionals, hospitals, the wider community, charities and government, and examines how children with health needs and their families can best be supported. Each chapter includes critical questions, case studies and reflection points, all followed by a commentary to help the reader to think through the issues.

Designed for all those working with children, or studying to work with children, Health and Wellbeing for Babies and Children: Contemporary Issues is ideal for students undertaking courses on public health nursing, children’s nursing, early years education, childhood studies and social work, among others.