It was with mounting enthusiasm that I read these excellent factsheets. There are 36 in total and most topics pertinent to child and adolescent psychiatry are covered. The sheets are designed to be photocopied and freely distributed, mainly to parents and teachers, although six sheets are directed towards young people. At only £10.00 a pack they are extremely good value for money.

The cover sheet lists 26 individual contributors, many of whom are recognised experts in child and adolescent psychiatry. The sheets themselves are clearly written in a style that manages to convey the essential facts without being either too technical or patronisingly simplistic. Issues covered include discipline and your child; dealing with tantrums; attention-deficit problems and hyperactivity; divorce or separation of parents; deliberate self-harm; and obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Each sheet follows a similar format. Problems are defined and placed in context, possible aetiological factors are listed and key questions regarding diagnosis and further management are answered. The authors deal with complex issues with sensitivity and the overall approach is measured and cautious, so reducing concern about possibly over-whelming parents or young people with information. This tactfulness is not at the expense of being instructive and the guidance given is refreshingly direct. The warmth and understanding that is conveyed regarding the predicaments faced by children, young people and those looking after them is also appealing.

On a practical level, it is helpful to be able to give written material to families, particularly when this can be followed up by further discussion. Many of the sheets end with a section on sources of further information, with the names of relevant organisations, books, websites and even journal references.

These factsheets can be highly recommended as a valuable clinical resource for anyone practising in child and adolescent psychiatry.