Having a party without using single use plastics might seem daunting, but it’s easy to do if you follow our simple tips. 1) Before you throw your plastic-free party, include a note on the invitation announcing that your party will be plastic-free. It’s a great way...

Keen to celebrate Halloween this year? Get creative and crafty with these fun ideas. From classic ghosts to quirky fruit inspired outfits and tasty treats....


Diane Johnson comes to understand that asking for a little help from our friends is not a sign of failure. While raising toddler twins and a primary-school age child, all boys, I would often hear comments that made me cringe. “My mother is coming for the...

Cathy Watson examines her part-time job’s full-time effect on family life. “Mina is taking you to the park this morning,” I said brightly. “I don’t want to go to the park.” Fierce, small three-year-old face, looking defiant. “But it will be fun at the park! Mina...

by Lou Duggan Birthday • party • planning. Three words that can strike fear into the hearts of even the most experienced mums. Because for so many of us, we equate successful children’s parties with success as a parent. But for our kids, a party is not about...

Cassandra Charlton’s daughter enjoys a close relationship with her distant cousins. My three-year-old daughter is separated from her cousins by thousands of kilometres – and sees them only once every two years when their family comes to Australia to visit us and their maternal grandparents. On...

Evengia van Berkel is on a cultural learning curve as she enters the world of children’s birthday parties in Australia. As parents, we’re on a steep learning curve from day one, even more so when raising children in a different country or culture from our own....

Zoë Bishop believes that by getting kids into gardening, we sow the seeds of a successful future. We all want our kids to survive. It is an instinct that takes hold of parents early and then drives our actions for the rest of our lives. To increase...