The paper covers the historical evolution of children's health one beginning on antiquity and proceeding into the present Various themes emerge including the indifference of society to children and the overtracts of infanticide and child abuse. By the 18th century new information in the field of medicine and chemistry led to improvements in the physical care of children. A sprit of huminism and the rise of the health professions joined forces in the late 19th century to institute important changes in the health status of children. Finally several current national trends we discussed in light of then potential impact on child health care.