# Warning: Functions are not valid as a React child. This may happen if you return a Component instead of <Component /> from render.

**Code:** `Functions not valid as child` · **Category:** React · **Seen on:** React

A function (usually a component itself) was rendered instead of calling/rendering it as an element.

## Meaning

Writing {Header} instead of <Header />, or returning a component function rather than JSX.

## Common causes

- {MyComponent} instead of <MyComponent />
- Passing a render function without calling it
- Returning a component type from render

## Quick fix

1. Render as an element: <Header />
2. Call render props: {renderItem(item)}

## Detailed fix by platform

### React

1. `{showHeader && <Header />}`

## How to diagnose

1. **Expression** — Which {…} renders a function?
2. **Recent change** — Did it start after a deploy, upgrade, or configuration change? Compare with the last working version.

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Source: [WhatIsMyError](https://whatismyerror.com/errors/react/functions-are-not-valid-as-react-child)