Did you know that kids can have strokes too?

Childhood Stroke Awareness Week (2-8 March 2026) is an annual campaign, held during the first week of March. It is dedicated to raising awareness about an important but often overlooked fact: kids have strokes too.

Each year in Australia, up to 120 babies and 400 children experience a stroke – that’s nearly two children per day. While stroke is often thought of as something that only affects older adults, it can happen at any age, and in children it can be missed.

The signs and symptoms can also look different in babies and children. Recognising the signs sooner means faster treatment, which can save lives and reduce the long-term impact of childhood stroke. Together, we can make a difference and ensure everyone knows that kids can have strokes too.

Five FAST Facts about Childhood Stroke

• Stroke is among the top ten causes of death in children.
• 50% of survivors of childhood stroke will have a long-term neurological impairment.
• The highest risk of childhood stroke is before one year of age.
• 50% of childhood strokes occur in children who were previously well.
• Causes of stroke in children are very different from those in adults.

Here’s how you can get involved: 

• Learn: Find out more about childhood stroke including the signs and symptoms, hear from survivors of childhood stroke and their families.
• Share: Order information resources, download fun activities for kids or purchase a Childhood Stroke Awareness T-shirt or mug.
• Support: Make a donation to childhood stroke and help deliver new resources to survivors of childhood stroke and their families.