Kaleidoscope is derived from the Greek words kalos (meaning "beautiful"), eidos ("form or shape") and skopeō ("to look at").

Why Kaleidoscope?  A kaleidoscope, with its bright colours and rapidly changing patterns, captures the essence of childhood. As a health service, Kaleidoscope is about supporting the health needs of Hunter children as they blossom from babies to teenagers.

Kaleidoscope is the colourful umbrella bringing together all children's public health services in the Hunter. 

Extending from the flagship John Hunter Children’s Hospital in Newcastle, Kaleidoscope also includes children's facilities at hospitals across the region, including Maitland and Muswellbrook, as well as the wide range of community-based services, mental and dental health.

Kaleidoscope, with its bright, easily recognisable logo, makes it easier for families to access the health care their children need.

This website is an important part of Kaleidoscope and will help you learn more about children's health services in the Hunter, where they are located and how to contact them. 

Like the patterns of a Kaleidoscope, all children are individual and have a special beauty. For children in our region who need our health services, we hope this website helps you and your familiy.

Kaleidoscope Annual Report 2003/04  (pdf) 738K

Kaleidoscope is fortunate to have the support of two very high profile Novocastrians who have enthusiastically welcomed the opportunity to become ambassadors for Hunter kids and Kaleidoscope. Sarah Wynter, Hollywood-based actor and Margaret McNaughton, the Hunter's own living treasure said: "As Hunter locals, we’re proud of the world-class public health care available right here in our region. From The John Hunter Children’s Hospital to children’s facilities in other hospitals, to community-based services, mental health and dental, the colourful new Kaleidoscope network does it all for children from throughout Northern NSW. We’re thrilled to be part of Kaleidoscope. It’s bright, fun and ever-changing, just like childhood and it’s for all kids, from babies to toddlers to teenagers. As children’s champions we hope we can do our part to give our kids the opportunities they all deserve, to see them reach their full potential. Please join with us in supporting Kaleidoscope and help build a happier and healthier future for our children."