Professor Dame Sally Davies' advice on the Department of Health's website says, 'Children from the age of six months to five years old should be given a daily dose of vitamin D, as sunlight can be in short supply during the winter.' Pregnant women and those who are breastfeeding are also advised to consider taking the supplement.
The Scottish government meanwhile is to advise women who are planning a pregnancy to take Vitamin D because a lack of sunlight can affect the growth of a foetus.
According to statistics from the National Health Service, the number of children suffering from rickets has increased ten-fold, with 61 children admitted to hospital with the condition in 2009-2010, compared with only six children under 14 years old in 2007-2008.
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Unlimited access to news and opinion
-
Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news
Already have an account? Sign in here