Children’s Health & Wellbeing
“We
Paul McNally, Children’s Health Ireland Page 02
Dr Ruth Freeman, Research Ireland Page 08 www.healthnews.ie
Stephanie Whyte Director of Services, Barnardos Ireland Read more on page
Why clinical trials must include children for better health outcomes globally
Clinical trials are essential if we are to deliver the highest quality healthcare services for children. They drive medical advances, improving health outcomes locally and globally.
Clinical trials are highly specialised research studies that test new treatments or drugs in people to ensure they are safe and effective. They are essential for advancing medical knowledge and improving outcomes for patients.
Why children need tailored trials
Children are not just small people. At different stages of development from infancy to adolescence, the way children’s bodies work changes dramatically, and treatments must be tailored specifically for them throughout their childhood. By including children in clinical trials, we gather critical information about safety, effectiveness, dosages and side effects. This leads to better, more precise treatments for our children.
Clinical trials are an essential step in delivering innovative therapies that transform children’s healthcare and allow children to live healthier, longer lives — free from illness. Many of the major advances that we have seen in child health over the years have come about because of clinical trials.
Trials offer hope and access
Participating in clinical trials gives children and their families hope. It offers them access to cutting-edge treatments that are not yet available to the public.
For many families, this can be a lifeline, providing options when standard treatments are not available or have failed. It’s also a chance for families to be part of something bigger — contributing to the future of medicine and helping other children who will benefit from these discoveries.
Ireland advancing paediatric clinical trials
Clinical trials in babies and children are being carried out all over Ireland, concentrated in the major teaching hospitals in partnership with our university partners. This activity is supported by Children’s Health Ireland and In4kids, an Irish network for trials in babies and children. The new children’s hospital will have a dedicated facility for trials. It will work in partnership with colleagues at the St James’s Hospital clinical trials facility to deliver advanced therapy trials.
Boosting participation to improve research
We still have a lot to do to promote and drive participation in clinical trials for children in Ireland, especially for children with rare or life-threatening diseases. As a country, we have huge potential to contribute to the growth of trials in children, bringing hope and improved outcomes to children in Ireland and internationally.
Rebuilding the
lives of children with cancer and other serious illnesses through the provision of life-changing therapeutic camps and programmes
Barretstown is Ireland’s largest provider of medically endorsed therapeutic camps and programmes for children affected by cancer and other serious illnesses.
Founded in 1994, by the late actor and philanthropist Paul Newman, this year, Barretstown celebrates its 30th anniversary. This is a significant milestone for the organisation which has, to date, supported more than 125,000 children and family members, with plans to double that by the end of the decade.
Camps rebuild emotional wellbeing
Barretstown’s mission is to rebuild the lives of these children and their families through the provision of therapeutic camps and programmes underpinned by robust research. Every child with a serious illness should enjoy their childhood and our essential therapeutic camps and programmes are a vital part of a child’s illness journey, supported
by 24/7 medical care at our 500-acre campus.
We provide a range of life-changing therapeutic residential programmes, including camps for families, children, teens, siblings and young adults, as well as bereavement support. Our outreach programmes are also delivered in hospitals and schools across Ireland.
When a child is diagnosed with cancer or another serious illness, it is devastating for both the child and family. The normal routine of life is paused and overtaken by hospital visits, treatment plans, medication and dealing with the physical and emotional impact of this life-altering event. The transformative power of our programmes helps rebuild confidence, independence and selfesteem.
Free medically endorsed therapeutic camps and programmes
All programmes are provided free of charge to children and their families, with delivery funded by Government (4%) and donations, corporate giving and philanthropy (96%). Barretstown must raise €9 million this year to deliver its essential programmes.
The services and supports provided by the Kildare-based charity align with the objectives of the National Cancer Strategy to cater for the psychosocial wellbeing of children and teenagers impacted by cancer.
Essential psychosocial support for children
According to Professor Owen Smith, Consultant Paediatric Haematologist, CHI@Crumlin and Barretstown
Medical Patron: “Their researchinformed and medically endorsed therapeutic programmes play a major role in a child’s recovery journey. We know that the impact of the programmes remains with people for life and are regarded as an important component in helping many go on to lead healthy and fulfilling lives.”
An independent social impact and social value report published earlier this year to mark this anniversary found that Barretstown’s therapeutic programmes for children affected by cancer and other serious illnesses since 1994 equate to some €1.9 billion in social value. While hospital treats the illness, Barretstown treats the child.
Dee Ahearn CEO, Barretstown
Sponsored by Barretstown
Image provided by Barretstown
Essential factors to consider when commencing weaning
As an infant grows, so will their nutritional needs. Ensure a smooth weaning process by following tips on timing, intake and introducing a nutrient-rich diet.
An infant’s usual milk, combined with a balanced weaning diet, is essential. This ensures the recommended daily amount of nutrients is provided during this rapid stage of development.
Timing of weaning
The Department of Health recommends the weaning process should begin from around six months. Solids should not be introduced before 17 weeks as an infant’s digestive system will be too immature to cope with foods, which can increase susceptibility to sensitivity and infection. However, weaning should not be delayed beyond 26 weeks as this may prolong learning of skills such as chewing, swallowing and speech. Ultimately, timing should be driven by the needs of an infant and the signs of readiness they exhibit.
Milk intake
Until an infant turns one, breastmilk continues to provide the majority of nutrients necessary. If breastfeeding is not an option, infant formula can be used as a substitute. As weaning commences, it is recommended to stick with an infant’s usual milk-feeding patterns. When an infant becomes more established on solids, they will gradually require less milk. It is recommended, if breastfeeding, to breastfeed on demand. If bottle feeding, aim to offer 500–600mls.
Introducing vegetables
Vegetables are excellent sources of vitamins and minerals. They should be introduced from the earliest stages of weaning. Clinical studies have found infants who are introduced to vegetables, without sweetening them by mixing with fruit, are more likely to accept these tastes in childhood, helping to build solid foundations for healthy eating. Nonetheless, fruit is a key provider of nutrients and should be offered as part of a mixed weaning diet.
Iron-rich foods
These support the rapid development of the brain that occurs in infancy. At around six months of age, an infant’s iron stores, which they acquired in the womb, will be depleted. Integrating foods — such as meats, oily fish, leafy green vegetables, beans, pulses, dried fruit and fortified cereals — into an infant’s diet will provide an essential source of iron to support healthy growth and development.
Ellen Lynch Registered Associate Nutritionist (ANutr)
Spot the signs of type 1 diabetes early by thinking TEST
Recognise type 1 diabetes symptoms early: TEST for Thirst, Energy, Sudden weight change and Toilet trips. Early diagnosis can prevent life-threatening DKA.
Recognising the symptoms of type 1 diabetes can be as simple as remembering the acronym TEST: Thirst (increased), Energy (reduced), Sudden (weight change), Toilet trips (increased).
Awareness of type 1 diabetes symptoms
A collaborative campaign between Diabetes Ireland and the Childhood Diabetes National Register aims to raise awareness among the general public about type 1 diabetes symptoms to avoid diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), which is a potentially life-threatening complication. Recognise the following signs early:
• Thirst (increased): being extremely thirsty but unable to quench the thirst
Diagnosis delays can quickly lead to DKA, which is a potentially life-threatening but avoidable complication of diabetes. It can be avoided through early diagnosis and treatment to replace missing insulin. Most children diagnosed with type 1 diabetes are identified by high blood glucose levels and do not have DKA at diagnosis. However, one in four will present with DKA at the time of diagnosis.
Delays in the diagnosis of adults with type 1 diabetes are an ongoing problem in Ireland.
• Energy (reduced): lack of energy and feeling very tired or weak
• Sudden (weight change): rapid, unexplained weight loss over a short period of time
• Toilet trips (increased): frequent urination, particularly at night
Do not delay, avoid DKA
Delays in the diagnosis of adults with type 1 diabetes are an ongoing problem in Ireland. In children and young people, the rate of new-onset type 1 is 37.6 cases/100,000 annually, which is increasing. On average, seven children and teens are diagnosed with type 1 diabetes each week in Ireland.
Seek help early for diagnosis
If you are concerned about the TEST symptoms, seek help as soon as possible. Contact your GP or local pharmacist. A simple finger prick blood glucose test or urine test can determine a diagnosis of type 1 diabetes.
Earlier diagnosis can prevent DKA and lead to better outcomes for those diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. People in Ireland and across the globe with type 1 diabetes are living their lives to the fullest — and key to this is early diagnosis.
Christina Hamilton RGN/RCN/RNP Education and Support Coordinator Diabetes Ireland
Sponsored by Nutricia Find
nutricia.ie
How a charity has been supporting vulnerable children and
families
Learn how more families from a wider range of backgrounds are seeking support.
WRITTEN BY Mark Nicholls
Previously, Barnardos found most service users were from specific social catchments, particularly after the job losses and mortgage arrears that followed the financial crash of the noughties. With the current costof-living crisis, it is seeing families across the social spectrum come forward for help.
Family stress impact
Barnardos Director of Services
Stephanie Whyte reflected on how that demographic has changed since she joined the organisation in 2008. “Today, the stresses on family life have become more common, irrespective of social background,” she says. “There is growing recognition that it is okay to reach
The charity works with children, parents and carers in 56 locations. While children remain the primary service users, the charity provides services in homes, schools and communities as it can be parents, teachers, health workers or people in a community that raise concerns about a child, often because of behavioural changes.
Adverse childhood experiences
The types of adverse childhood experiences affecting them are parental mental health challenges, family conflict, poor relationships, marital breakdown, bereavement, poverty, addiction or homelessness. Children can feel sad, disappointed, upset and confused and withdraw or have angry outbursts. Whyte
there is a concern about them not achieving their potential, so we put support in place to enable them to achieve their full potential.”
As parents may have had similar adverse childhood experiences, the charity aims to break that cycle in families, with support workers helping parents and children understand and manage their feelings and emotions. “At the core is the emotional and social wellbeing of children,” says Whyte. “We fundamentally believe that the safest place for a child to grow and develop is in a positive, nurturing relationship with their parents.”
Meeting care needs
Barnardos school-based programmes focus on ‘breath, body and mind’ with breathing and movement exercises to calm children down, as well as strategies to help them develop and keep friends. Whyte says children need their daily care needs met such as clothing and shelter; require good supervision; and see their “talents encouraged, fostered and explored.”
The charity offers communitybased initiatives too. While its services have grown by around 25% in Ireland in recent years, there are still waiting lists for those needing support as the organisation focuses on long-term solutions for vulnerable children.
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Stephanie Whyte Director of Services, Barnardos Ireland
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How
speech and language therapists enable children’s voices and improve lives
Speech and language therapists can make a life-changing difference to the children they work with. It’s a rewarding role where even small breakthroughs can have a big impact.
Caolán McCarthy doesn’t think of his job as ‘a job.’ He thinks of it as ‘an honour.’ As a speech and language therapist (SLT) working in the Children’s Disability Network Team at Enable Ireland — the national disability services provider — he’s aware of the humbling difference he can make in children’s lives.
Role of speech and language therapists
“I work with children of varying ages, profiles and complex needs who may struggle to find an effective way to communicate with the people around them,” McCarthy explains. “If the way someone communicates isn’t understood by the people around them, then they can’t express their emotions, passions or physiological needs — like when they’re hungry, thirsty, tired or sick. I have the honour of ‘bridging the gap’ between a child and their family or school, making communication more accessible and allowing the person to communicate comfortably and freely.”
Culture of understanding and acceptance
Seeing the development of the children he works with is one of the best things about being a SLT, notes McCarthy. “It doesn’t have to be a big, long-term development,” he says. “Making a moment of connection can be fulfilling, too. It’s wonderful to see the difference between someone at the beginning of a session — when they might be so tightly wound that they’re unable to move — versus the end of a session, when they’re feeling happier and comfortable. You get a sense that you’ve helped create a safe space for them and their family, and that’s a hugely rewarding first step.”
McCarthy — who is neurodivergent himself — joined Enable Ireland last year. “Working somewhere with great facilities and where there are chances for continued professional and skills development is a boon,” he admits. “There’s also a lovely community here where you feel supported by your team and a culture of understanding and acceptance. My neurodivergence also gives me insight into the experiences of the children I work with and, hopefully, improves the quality of my work.”
Whooping cough vaccine for pregnant women
Pregnant women should have access to factual, expert-led whooping cough vaccine information, so they can make informed choices about their pregnancy health and wellbeing.
Pertussis, more commonly known as whooping cough, is a very contagious infection which can cause life-threatening illness in babies. This year, in Ireland, we have seen a rise in whooping cough, particularly in babies under six months of age. Thankfully, you can protect your baby by getting your whooping cough booster vaccine in pregnancy. Here is what you need to know:
What is whooping cough?
It is caused by a bacterial infection of the airways and lungs. The start of the whooping cough illness in children may seem just like the common cold with a runny nose, cough and a slight temperature. The cough can develop into coughing fits, which have a ‘whoop’ sound, and these fits can be followed by vomiting. In small babies, there might not be a cough. Instead, babies can have spells where they stop breathing.
How does whooping cough spread?
It spreads through contact with droplets from coughs and sneezes. Younger children often get the infection from older siblings or adults in the family who may be carrying the germ in their nose and throat but have mild symptoms and might not seem too unwell.
What complications can whooping cough cause?
The infection can cause serious complications. Babies may have spells where they stop breathing. Other complications of whooping cough include pneumonia, dehydration, seizures and inflammation of the brain.
Who is most at risk of whooping cough?
Babies under six months of age are most at risk as their immune system is still developing. If babies under six months of age get whooping cough, half will end up in hospital.
How can I protect my new baby from whooping cough?
Getting the whooping cough vaccine in pregnancy helps to protect your young baby from whooping cough.
When in pregnancy should I get this vaccine?
This vaccine is best given between 16 to 36 weeks of pregnancy, and it is available free of charge from your GP.
Access to third-level education causes undue stress on the younger generation
Irish charity supports teenage girls in pursuing technology careers, helping them navigate the compounded effects of COVID-19, the mental health crisis and intergenerational inequality.
COVID-19 disruptions to education and social interaction led to lost learning time, worsened by limited digital access and shifting social norms, causing increased anxiety, isolation and mental health issues. Joanne Dolan, Teen-Turn Cofounder, discusses this impact: “Social connection is linked to adolescent wellbeing. It will take time until we are beyond the impact of what two years of secondary school loss was for young people.”
Rising pressure to secure third-level education
Irish teens face pressure from the high-stakes state exams, worsened by the mental health crisis, job market uncertainty and rising higher education costs. “CSO (Central Statistics Office) reports show 14% of the Irish population held third-level qualifications in 1991, a figure which increased to 48% in 2022,” says Dolan. “There is a lot of pressure to achieve third-level education, with so much riding on the state examination process.”
Intergenerational inequality
COVID-19’s impact on young people highlights intergenerational inequality, with disparities in opportunity, resources and wellbeing worsened by the housing crisis and gig economy. Of 16,000 gradireland 100 student survey responses, half are concerned that they may not secure a job.
“There is a nexus of uncertainty: the housing crisis, job cuts and pressure to secure qualifications,” Dolan continues. “We are seeing many young people unable to have the full college experience.
Providing support, skills and security
Teen-Turn improves access to STEM education for girls from disadvantaged backgrounds by offering targeted mentorship, resources and guidance. “Teen-Turn promotes thirdlevel progression to girls in underserved communities from secondary education to higher education and beyond, with a particular focus on STEM roles,” explains Dolan.
“We provide a real sense of community, socially and personally, building their network and supporting them from exams to securing post-secondary education and qualifications.”
The organisation focuses on building skills in areas like computer programming and project management, preparing students for future job markets. “Not only do we secure their place, but we help them stay in it, securing their qualification,” concludes Dolan.
Dr Chantal Migone Consultant in Public Health Medicine
Joanne Dolan Co-Founder, TeenTurn
Sponsored by Teen-Turn
WRITTEN BY Bethany Cooper
Education support service for parents and guardians of schoolchildren
As the new school year starts, it’s a busy time for families and an exciting time for children who are continuing their education journey.
School is an important part of childhood; where children learn, make friends and have fun. A good education combined with loving care and encouragement will give your child a great start in life.
promote attendance and sometimes might contact you if they have concerns about attendance. It is important to respond to any calls, texts or meeting requests from the school. Schools want the best for their students, and working together can lead to better outcomes for your
It’s the gift of security. Of comfort. Of memories.
At Threshold, we know the best way to solve the problem of homelessness is to ensure it doesn’t happen in the first place.
Your gift today can ensure our vital work on behalf of renters can continue Call Catherine today to learn how on 1800 43 44 45, visit our website www.threshold.ie or scan the QR code
Tusla Education Support Service (TESS) is the national service responsible for supporting attendance at school
The Educational Welfare Service (EWS) helps children with serious attendance problems and gives advice to parents on attendance issues and finding a suitable
The School Completion Programme (SCP) supports children to connect with the school community and stay
The Home School Community Liaison Scheme (HSCL) works with parents, teachers and the community to support children’s education and attendance.
Regular school attendance is something we can all achieve together. By acting quickly, and with the right support, children can enjoy learning in school and build lasting
Research is delivering brighter futures for children
There exists a huge opportunity in Ireland today to improve children’s health and wellbeing through scientific research.
Targeted paediatric research not only explores new treatment possibilities but also facilitates a broader and deeper understanding of the ways in which young patients are affected by illnesses and health conditions.
Cerebral palsy research
This year, under our Strategic Partnership Programme, we co-funded ELEVATE with Cerebral Palsy Foundation. This is a new €11.6 million, five-year cerebral palsy research programme at University College Cork (UCC).
ELEVATE is led by the Irish Centre for Maternal and Child Health Research (INFANT) at UCC, partnering with RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Trinity College Dublin and all tertiary-level maternity hospitals in Ireland.
ELEVATE aims to make Ireland a leading hub for research and innovation in early brain injury and cerebral palsy. Researchers will create cutting-edge AI screening algorithms, devise novel detection methods, explore potential new treatments and actively involve cerebral palsy-affected families in ongoing trials, education and information platforms.
Investing in paediatric health research
For the last three years, we have partnered with Children’s Health Foundation through our Frontiers for the Future Programme. This valued collaboration focuses on discovering cures and treatments for sick children and aims to measurably enhance paediatric healthcare solutions into the future.
We have also been delighted to award funding to the University College Dublin-based AI PREMie team, under our ‘Future Innovator Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Societal Good Challenge.’ The AI PREMie team uses
cutting-edge biomedical, clinical and machine learning techniques to help diagnose and manage pre-eclampsia — a serious complication affecting one in every ten pregnancies.
These are just a few examples of where we are investing public funds in paediatric research. Historically, however, research into children’s health and wellbeing has been largely sporadic.
Research into children’s health and wellbeing has been largely sporadic.
Advancing research for a promising future
The recent establishment of Ireland’s new competitive research and innovation funding agency, Taighde Éireann – Research Ireland, is exciting. Amalgamating Science Foundation Ireland and the Irish Research Council, the new agency strengthens engagement between Ireland’s research and innovation system, enterprise, Government, public bodies, voluntary sector and society.
It is my deep, personal hope that children with illnesses will benefit from this newly configured research ecosystem. We owe them not just a future of promises but a promising future.
Dr Ruth Freeman Director, Science for Society, Research Ireland
Uncovering the lasting effects of homelessness — and how you can help
Homelessness is an undeniably traumatic experience and can have long-lasting effects on the wellbeing of children.
Figures from the Department of Housing show that over 4,400 children are currently without a home in Ireland, and the number of families with children accessing emergency accommodation is rising all the time.
Some of the main effects of homelessness on children
Homelessness has a profound impact on children’s health and developmental outcomes. Many children find living in emergency accommodation cramped and stressful. Additionally, children have to leave their friends, schools and extended families. Beyond stress and anxiety, homelessness is also linked to developmental delays in young children.
Although any duration of homelessness is harmful to children, the longer the experience, the more severe the consequences are. Unfortunately, nearly 900 families have now been in homelessness for more than a year, and over 400 of these families have been for more than two years.
What can be done to mitigate the trauma of homelessness on children?
Access to housing is the ultimate solution: our final goal is to help people get and keep a home and end homelessness in Ireland for good.
In addition, the Focus Ireland Family Centre, Family Homeless Action Team and other family services help children cope with the difficulties they face while living in emergency accommodation. Our trauma-informed approach supports children and their families throughout
their journeys, offering tailored services based on their unique needs.
Trauma-informed care fosters safe attachment
The most important factor in reducing the negative impact of trauma on children is having a positive and secure attachment with at least one caring adult. Trauma-informed approaches, applied throughout the services we provide, can support parents and children develop and maintain a safe attachment. Implementing a trauma-informed approach also means that all our staff understand the impact of trauma, along with the survival strategies children and adults use to cope.
How can the public help end children’s homelessness?
We are ending homelessness for families every day, but the numbers still rise as more are losing their homes. However, our work shows that homelessness can be ended if the right actions are taken, and we need your support to do this by donating to our fundraising campaigns. We are asking people in Ireland to sleep out on 11 October for Shine A Light, to raise awareness and funds in solidarity with those experiencing homelessness. Christmas is also fast approaching, and that’s an important time to donate and help us provide children and their families a place to call home.
Source
As a country, we have huge potential to contribute to the growth of trials in children, bringing hope and improved outcomes to children in Ireland and internationally.
~Paul McNally Director of Research and Innovation Consultant in Respiratory Medicine Associate Professor of Paediatrics, Children’s Health Ireland (CHI)
John O’Haire Head of Family Services, Focus Ireland
Sponsored by Focus Ireland
Jesse Wiesblatt
Acting Director of Fundraising and Marketing, Focus Ireland
Everyone who shares the road has a collective responsibility to look after each other, especially our most vulnerable road users: children.
The importance of keeping children safe on our roads and tips for parents and caregivers
Keeping children safe on the road — discover the insights on serious injuries and road casualties among the youngest road users in Ireland.
Our roads get busier as we move into autumn with back-to-school drop-offs and collections from schools, creches or childminders, students heading to college and commuters heading to work. Everyone who shares the road each day has a collective responsibility to look after each other, and, in particular, looking after some of our most vulnerable road users: children.
In the last five years, 34 children aged 0–15 years have tragically lost their lives on our roads while another 592 were seriously injured. These figures are highlighted in the recently published Road Safety Authority’s Child Casualties Report 2019–2023, and here are some further insights from it:
Large proportions were pedestrians and cyclists
Out of the 626 children who were killed or seriously injured, almost half (49%) were pedestrians, and nearly a fifth (19%) were cyclists. This underscores the importance of ensuring our children are wellequipped with the knowledge to navigate footpaths, cycle on our roads safely and wear reflective gear. It is also crucially important that drivers are vigilant for children out walking and cycling and that people who cycle always wear a helmet.
Danger of urban and rural roads
Children were more likely to be injured on an urban road. Notably, 69% of injuries occurred on urban roads with speed limits of 60 km/h or less, emphasising the need for vigilance in built-up and busy areas.
Most dangerous times and days Our children’s daily routines play a role in their safety. According to the report, children are most likely to be injured in the afternoons and evenings, with 72% of injuries occurring between 12 pm and 8 pm. When it comes to days of the week, Friday was the day which saw the greatest proportion of children seriously injured, with 17% occurring on this day.
Child casualties by gender
Another concerning trend in the RSA report to highlight is the gender disparity in child casualties. Significantly more male children have been injured than female children, with the former representing 63% of casualties over the five-year period.
Road safety education
Liz O’Donnell, chairperson of the RSA, says: “Teaching children at an early age about the importance of road safety is so important. Making sure children understand how to
safely cross the road, and the dangers of playing near roads, is vital.” Ensuring children have the proper safety gear like helmets, reflective clothing and lights for their bicycles and scooters is a great first step. If your child has an e-scooter, they need to be over 16 years of age to use it and obey the speed limit of 20km/h. Most importantly, set an example — children learn by watching, so make sure you follow the road safety rules yourself, whether you are walking, cycling or driving.
Sam Waide, chief executive of the RSA, adds: “Over the past few weeks, we have all witnessed a significant increase in traffic as the country returns to school and work routines. I am reminding drivers to slow down and to be aware of children on their way to school, walking or cycling.”
It is also important to remind school staff of the RSA’s Back to School guidelines for improving road safety around schools. These are available on RSA.ie. Road safety is everyone’s responsibility, and by working together across our communities, we can create safer environments for children. We must all play our part.
Liz O’Donnell Chairperson, Road Safety Authority
Sam Waide Chief Executive Officer, Road Safety Authority
Image provided by Road Safety Authority
Targeted paediatric research not only explores new treatment possibilities but also facilitates a broader and deeper understanding of the ways in which young patients are affected by illnesses.
~Dr Ruth Freeman Director, Science for Society,
Research Ireland
Top oral health recommendations for your children’s mouth, teeth and gums
Good oral health is a human right and vital to children’s wellbeing. Prevention is essential for healthy teeth, gums and to avoid injury to front teeth.
Current views on oral health for children align with general health principles. They emphasise prevention, rather than addressing problems once they occur. This involves a common risk factor approach to prevention.
Common childhood oral conditions
Tooth decay is the most common chronic disease of childhood, affecting around 60%–90% of school-aged children globally. It’s a common reason for young children attending hospital and receiving treatment under general anaesthesia.
Other common conditions include inflamed gums, dental erosion and injury to front teeth. All these conditions are preventable by the following advice, using a common risk factor approach and ensuring early dental visits to detect potential problems.
Recommendations for a healthy mouth
Eat/drink as little sugars as possible. Particularly avoid foods/drinks sweetened with sugars between meals and at bedtime. Avoid fizzy drinks, whether identified as sugar-free or not. Plain milk and tap water are the best drinks for healthy teeth.
Brush teeth twice a day using fluoride toothpaste from age two. Spit, don’t rinse, after brushing. Supervise brushing at least until age seven. For older children, ask your dentist or dental professional about use of floss and interdental brushes. Don’t smoke/ vape, or discontinue if already started. Wear a mouthguard when playing contact sports, during both competitive and training games. These recommendations not only support a healthy mouth, teeth and gums but also contribute to overall health. This common risk factor approach is recommended by the national oral health policy ‘Smile agus Sláinte’ and by the World Health Organization.
Medication and toothpaste advice
Some medications can contain sugars. Always choose sugar-free options when available. Inform your dentist about all medicines your child is taking. Some children enjoy the taste of toothpaste. Always supervise brushing, using only a pea-sized amount. Avoid letting your child eat, lick or swallow toothpaste. For children under seven years, use toothpaste with 1,000ppm fluoride. Those over seven may use a toothpaste with 1,450ppm. Follow the guidance unless your dental professional says otherwise.
Sponsored by Dental Health Foundation
Mairead Harding, Trustee, Dental Health Foundation
Sport, physical activity and nutrition can transform children’s lives
Physical activity, nutrition and digital technology are key to improving physical and mental health and wellbeing, especially for children and young people.
Sport breaks stigma and misperceptions. At the Paralympics, Paris poured 125 million euros into disability access, and TV coverage surpassed all previous records.
Disability sports showcased ability, strength and determination. Children could see the athleticism of people with disabilities being celebrated. This encourages children with disabilities to get active and involved in sport, which requires opportunities, parental support and a trained workforce.
Child wellbeing rights
Beyond the podium, park and public realm, children with disabilities, like all others, need sport, physical activity and nutrition for their health and wellbeing. Avoidable barriers prevent participation and good nutrition daily. We must shape systems to embrace lifestyle interventions to promote social change and improve health outcomes for all.
Children with disabilities have the right to access sports and quality food, which can transform lives. Play, sport and physical activity are powerful vehicles for social inclusion, making them critical for children with disabilities who are
at greater risk of social isolation. Children with disabilities must be consulted and involved in shaping change to better serve their needs.
Disability inclusion advocacy
Around 1.2 billion people live with disability globally. This can be physical, mental, sensory or intellectual; it may be visible or invisible. It is part of the human condition and may visit any of us. As a society, we do not provide well for people with disabilities. Building on the work of the Health and Leisure Department at Munster Technological University (MTU) in preparing graduates to work with people with disabilities, the university’s UNESCO Chair has advocated globally for the rights of people with disabilities in sports since 2013 and urges other universities to better prepare graduates for promoting disability inclusion. Universities risk perpetuating discrimination if they do not equip graduates to accommodate the needs of people with disabilities in all areas of our society.
Better health outcomes
Physical activity, nutrition and digital technology are key to improving physical and mental health and wellbeing, especially for children and young people. Through a human rights-based sustainable approach, MTU provides lifestyle programmes for people with physical, sensory, intellectual and mental health conditions in the Cork/Kerry region. These cost-effective interventions can improve health outcomes and prevent mood disorders and noncommunicable diseases.
Lifestyle interventions need to be embedded into our health services at every level, with trained professionals delivering programmes and supporting healthy lifestyles from a young age. Some countries prioritise lifestyle programming and education to deliver effective results.
Upcoming conferences
In June 2025, MTU will host two parallel international conferences at their Kerry North Campus in Tralee: The International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity (ISAPA) and the International Symposium of Physical Activity for Visual Impairment and Deafblindness. The event is under the patronage of UNESCO. With the support of sponsors, the organisers hope to offer bursaries for delegates from lowincome countries and to support the costs of delegates with disabilities, who often face a greater cost burden. Alongside the conference scientific programme and trade exhibition, David Donoghue, former Irish diplomat and co-facilitator of UN negotiations on the 2030 Agenda, will speak of the importance of sport and physical activity in delivering on the Sustainable Development Goals. Dr Niall Muldoon, Ombudsman for Children, will explore children’s experiences in Ireland in accessing their rights with the youth forum of Active Disability Ireland.
Rights for future generations
‘The Summit of the Future’, taking place this week at the New York UN headquarters, calls on countries to do more for future generations and sustainable development across all sectors. Coalition 2030 has issued a call to action for a Future Generation Commissioner in Ireland. MTU fully supports this initiative and believes future generations of children living with disabilities in Ireland should have all their rights met, including those relating to physical activity, sport and nutrition. In the future, children born in Ireland with disabilities and their families should be confident that their rights are protected, respected and fulfilled.
Catherine Carty UNESCO Chair Manager, MTU
Sponsored by Munster Technological University
Image provided by Munster Technological University