Australia introduced new rules on December 10th, 2025 requiring social media platforms to stop children under 16 from creating or maintaining accounts. This extract is from Screen Smart Children, which answers many of the burning questions parents might have. One reason for the new social media...
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...
Do you know a youngster about to start school? There are some great new books available to help ease the introduction. Starting School All About Stating School by Felicity Brooks, illus. by Mar Ferrero, an Usborne Book, pub. HarperCollins, h/b RRP$19.99. Ages 3+ Usborne books are always fun and...
We often see lists of ‘top’ schools. But what makes a good school for your child? Nicole Brownlie and Renee Desmarchelier look behind what makes a good school for your child. Lists of Australia’s “top” schools regularly make headlines. We see this every year with Year 12...
Sarah Jefferson asks could a little bit of school work over the holidays help? As the summer holidays progress, parents may feel concerned their children will “forget how to spell their own names” during the long school break. Or there may be worries about forgetting times tables,...
Looking for some movies for the days when holidays become too much and a little quiet time is required? Here are Childmags suggested summer family movies. Also, note that Sensory Screenings are available where noted below. At a Glance: Zootopia 2 (PG) – from 27 Nov Wicked: For...
With bright illustrations and just the right mix of excitement and emotion, these books capture Christmas themes and what kids love most about reading A Barney Gumnut Christmas by Tamsin Ainslie, pub HarperCollins, h/b RRP$24.99. Ages from 0-4. This sweet book is also beautifully illustrated by the author...
Australia is about to ban under-16s from social media. Here’s what kids can do right now to prepare write Daniel Angus and Tama Leaver If you’re a young person in Australia, you probably know new social media rules are coming in December. If you and your...
New research shows most teenagers are stuck in a cycle of poor diet, low activity, and too much screen time – but parents can help turn things around. Too Much Fast Food, Not Enough Greens When a cheeseburger costs less than a punnet of strawberries, it’s no...
As the year ends, it’s the perfect time to reassess friendships. Mental-health author Elizabeth Jane says one-sided relationships can quietly drain energy and confidence. Recognising the signs and setting boundaries can protect wellbeing and create space for healthier, reciprocal connections. As the year winds down, many...
