The routine use of urine dipstick testing in the consulting room of the family physician has fallen into disfavour for several reasons. One of the arguments cited most often is that it is time consuming and not cost beneficial. This is particularly true with respect to small children, because of the difficulties experienced collecting urine from this group of patients. The aim of this review is to stress the important role that urine dipstick testing plays in the diagnostic work-up of any patient with a kidney or urinary tract disorder. A practical approach is provided on urine dipstick test abnormalities in relation to kidney and urinary tract disorders in children.