The words we all use matter, explains Matthew Harrison, Jessica Riordan, Sarah Timperley and Jess Rowlings. When it comes to neurodiversity – they shape how communities understand difference, who is believed and who feels safe to ask for support. For people with Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD),...
As parents prepare for another school year, there’s one subject that often gets overlooked says Angel Zhong, money. Financial literacy isn’t just about numbers. It’s about building skills that will shape your child’s future decisions, from buying their first car to planning for retirement. The good news?...
Parent groups are meant to be supportive — but when your child develops differently, they can feel unexpectedly isolating. Erica Sharplin reflects on raising a gifted child, the awkwardness of standing out, and why finding “your people” can make all the difference. Parent Groups: Supportive —...
Some schools now offer breakfast to students before the school day begins — while many others do not. In recent years, a growing number of Australian schools have introduced breakfast clubs or morning meal programs, often supported by community groups and charities. The trend reflects...
‘I had a recurring dream I was shot in the head’ said one male principle. Lucas Walsh, Christine Grice, Jane Wilkinson and Tim Delany report on the current position in Australian schools. Principals’ jobs have always been stressful, involving a constant juggle to meet the needs...
Teenagers aren’t lazy—their brains are wired to run later. New neuroscience explains why early school start times clash with teens' sleep, mental health, and learning, and why some Australian schools are rethinking the school day. If your teenager struggles to get out of bed before school,...
Is it only just an increase in sick days? How can Australia fix this? ask researchers Jordana Hunter, Amy Haywood and Molly Chapman On a typical school day in Australia last year, about 11% of students were absent. In 2014, the figure was 7%. Two in...
As Australian families prepare for the start of a new school year, many parents are asking a quiet but important question: will this classroom really work for my child? For families of children with disability, developmental delay, autism or additional learning needs, inclusion is about more...
New Australian research shows that raising the school-leaving age reduced child maltreatment and emergency hospital visits. Here’s why staying in school matters for vulnerable teens. When staying at school protects children Keeping teenagers engaged in school doesn’t just improve learning outcomes — it can also protect their...
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...
