Vitamin D supplementation in children is widely recommended for rickets prevention, especially during infancy. Standard doses range from 400–600 IU/day depending on age and sun exposure. Risks primarily arise from overdosing: vitamin D toxicity can cause hypercalcemia, kidney stones, and soft tissue calcification. Long-term safety of high doses (>1000 IU/day) in children is not well established by clinical trials. Individual needs vary by skin type, latitude, and lifestyle. Blood testing for 25(OH)D may be useful before supplementation but is not routinely advised. Evidence for many claimed benefits (immune support, allergy prevention) is moderate to conflicting. Parents should consult a pediatrician before giving high-dose supplements. In summary: vitamin D is important but not a panacea; dosing should be age-appropriate and not excessive.
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