ABSTRACT
Injury is a leading cause of death and permanent disability in children and young adults in all countries. Most parents worry about how to let a child explore and learn, yet protect them from accidents. As health professionals we have a role in educating the families we see and our local community, while striking a balance between advising on injury prevention and encouraging activity and sports for the child's future health. Most injuries to children less than three years of age occur in the home or garden. At this age children develop rapidly, and their carers often underestimate their capabilities. When children become older they attend nurseries or schools, and move further from home for play and other activities. As children reach adolescence, injuries occur further from the home or in high-risk places where bored teenagers seek adventure.
