- Despite free health care for preschool children in South Africa, children are often unable to access health care because of inadequate services, especially in rural areas where there is often a severe lack of health care facilities, staff, medication and transport.
- Poor knowledge by parents of the rights and needs of children. Parents may not take their children for immunisations and regular weight checks. They may even not take them for help when they become ill.
- Health services at school are often inadequate and feeding schemes may not function.