Dr Rick Jarman

Dr. Rick Jarman is one of Australia’s foremost experts in child development and behavioural paediatrics. He graduated with an MBBS from Melbourne University in 1979 and obtained his specialist qualification in Paediatrics (FRACP) in 1988.

Dr. Jarman's career includes prestigious roles and training, including serving as Chief Resident at the Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH) in Melbourne from 1985-1986. In 1986, he was awarded the Jeannie Poolman scholarship, and soon after, moved to the United States to complete a 3-year Fellowship in Developmental and Behavioural Paediatrics at the University of Massachusetts Medical Centre. During this time, he was recognised with the U Mass Excellence in Teaching Award by paediatric residents in 1988.

He returned to Australia in 1989, joining the senior medical staff at the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne. There, he was appointed Deputy Director of the Department of Ambulatory Paediatrics in 1991 and Director of Clinical Services in 1994. Dr. Jarman founded and headed the Child Behaviour Clinic and Sleep Clinics within the Centre for Community Child Health at RCH.

Dr. Jarman has been awarded multiple competitive research grants and has contributed to the scientific community with over 50 publications, including original research articles, textbook chapters, and journal reviews. His professional involvement extends beyond clinical work, having served as Chairman of the Scientific Program Committee and as a member of the Written Examinations Committee of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians. He has also held roles in various state and national professional organisations.

In addition to his academic and clinical expertise, Dr. Jarman is a highly sought-after public speaker both in Australia and internationally. His areas of expertise include child behaviour problems, sleep issues, positive parenting, developmental and learning disorders (including ADHD and autism), social skills training, and other child development topics.