As children across Australia head back to school, hundreds won’t be returning to their classrooms. Instead, they’ll be in hospital rooms, undergoing treatment for blood cancer — the most common and life-threatening cancer affecting Australian children. This year alone, around 350 Australian children will be diagnosed with blood cancer....
Kate Gorringe-Smith is concerned at the fickle focus of her son’s night-time nuzzling. I was dizzy with the sudden increase in pace of my son’s relationships, and concerned as to what, if anything, to say. Was it right to just let him churn through bedfellows like...
Melissa Barnes and Kate Lafferty introduce the academic skill of metacognition – and 4 ways to encourage it in children. When parents think about their child’s education, they probably focus on basic skills and exam results, the amount a child is trying and their wellbeing. But there...
A new study shows little kids who count on their fingers do better at maths, reports Jennifer Way and Katherin Cartwright If you ask a small child a simple maths question, such as 4+2, they may count on their fingers to work it out. Should we encourage...
A government review wants schools to respond to bullying complaints within 2 days. Is this fair? What else do we need? Asks Matthew White and Paul Kidson Recently, the federal government released its rapid review into school bullying. Authored by clinical psychologist Charlotte Keating and suicide prevention...
Why what kids eat at school still matters – and how to keep it realistic The first weeks of a new school year often bring a surprising mix of emotions – and not always from the kids. Many parents feel the pressure most keenly at the...
As the new school year approaches, many families feel the familiar mix of excitement, nerves and long to-do lists. From resetting routines to packing lunchboxes and navigating technology, the return to school can feel overwhelming — but experts say it’s often the small, practical changes that...
Teachers play a vital role in every community, a fact widely acknowledged by the public. Yet recent research shows a looming shortage, especially in rural areas, as many teachers leave – or at least consider leaving – the profession. Why is this happening? A new study, Perceptions...
New measles cases in Queensland showed ‘herd immunity’ is now more important than ever, report Frank Beard and Kristine Macartney The World Health Organization (WHO) declared Australia free of measles in 2014. Historically, high childhood measles vaccination coverage and thorough follow-up of suspected cases have helped prevent...
Thumb and finger sucking are common self-soothing habits in babies and young children — but when they persist, they can start to affect teeth and jaw development. Paediatric dentist Dr Anna Buckeridge explains what’s happening in your child’s mouth, when parents should be concerned, and...
