There are some myths about reading that tend to be perpetuated relentlessly. One of them: That graphic novels* don’t count as “real reading.” However, teachers and literacy experts disagree with this. Graphic novels will improve your child's reading skills like any other book would, and they are fantastic...
Fostering a love of stories in a child’s first years is key to lifelong reading, writes Elaine Reese Children’s literacy rates are falling around the globe. In response, a number of governments, including New Zealand’s, are overhauling the way reading is taught in primary school. One...
Nick Fuller looks at 5 picky eating habits – and how to help your child overcome them. Have you ever found yourself negotiating with a pint-sized dictator about eating a single pea? You’re not alone. Almost half of kids go through a stage of picky eating,...
Kayla Mildren looks at the recent Queensland tribunal ruling that it is not discriminatory for a school to require girls to wear skirts at formal events. The private high school said girls needed to wear skirts for occasions including excursions, ceremonies and class photographs. A female student...
As a urogynaecologist, writes Jennifer King I care exclusively for women with pelvic floor problems. These are the women with leaking bladders and weak supporting tissues allowing the vaginal walls to bulge outside. Pelvic organ prolapse can be distressing or embarrassing and interfere with everyday...
Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) is a common but relatively unknown disability that affects about 1 in 14 children. Despite its prevalence, many Australian teachers haven’t heard of the disorder, much less know how to help a student living with DLD. The DLD Project Foundation is pushing for...
A Free educational teaching course to tackle declining financial literacy rates in Australian children, has been launched. Financial Basics Foundation has launched Cashed Up, a free suite of financial literacy courses designed for Australian high school students. Supported by Australian Retirement Trust, the program aims to address...
Top Tips from craft expert Shannon Wong-Nizic Whether it’s carving pumpkins or making decorations, Halloween is a great opportunity to engage in creative activities that celebrate fun, imagination and family togetherness. “Crafting requires cooperation and shared decision-making. Families can share laughs, stories, and ideas, creating lasting memories...
Formal music classes are not the only way to enjoy the rhythms of life, writes Linda Wyrill. As an early childhood music educator, I am intensely aware of the benefits of music to children’s development – especially from the ages of zero to six. Most parents...
A recent survey conducted by Act for Kids, a national child protection charity, highlights the severe effects of Australia's cost-of-living crisis on children and families. Key Findings from the Survey: Health Care Accessibility: 43% of respondents reported difficulties affording health care for their families. Educational Needs:...
