ABSTRACT
The aim of this study was to gain some understanding of children's knowledge of the human body and thus help health professionals to communicate at an appropriate level with children when they require medical intervention or health promotion. The relevant data were obtained by the use of a semi-structured interview. The children were asked a series of questions to elicit information about 11 major body parts. The results demonstrated that children's knowledge of their bodies increases as their age increases. Children between 4.5 years and 8.5 years of age could spontaneously recall approximately two to four body parts. They were most aware of the existence of the bones, heart and brain. Young children appeared to hold some common misconceptions about the content of their body. When health professionals are required to give information to sick or healthy children, it is important that they are aware of the child's level of knowledge of the human body to ensure a common level of discourse.
