They’re marketed as friendly, supportive and even comforting—but AI companion chatbots are raising major safety concerns for children. A new Australian report reveals worrying gaps in how these platforms protect young users. AI companions are already part of kids’ digital lives AI chatbots designed to act like...
Inspired by Nietzsche, his story about a bad-tempered pudding, which never diminishes no matter how much you eat it, has been widely interpreted as defending our “way of life”, writes John Uhr The federal parliamentary seat of Lindsay, west of Sydney, was formed in 1984, honouring...
Ever snapped at your child and wondered, Where did that come from? A new parenting book explains why our own childhood shapes our reactions—and how small, thoughtful shifts can help break the cycle. Why reactions can feel bigger than the moment Most parents recognise it—the sharper tone...
Easter is a special time for families — whether you’re celebrating traditions, enjoying chocolate treats or keeping kids busy over the holidays. Here’s our curated mix of trusted, reader-favourite Easter ideas, refreshed for today’s parents. What Easter Means (and Why It Matters) Easter — what’s it all...
Having your period can be a painful experience, writes Mike Armour. Could exercise help? Period pain, also known as dysmenorrhea, is a very common condition, with around nine in ten young women aged 13 to 25 in Australia having regular period pain. For many women, period pain...
Lauren Ball and Emily Burch ask, are these benefits real, or is drinking hot water just another viral wellness fad? You may have noticed an unexpected wellness trend gaining traction online. People are claiming a daily cup of hot water (with nothing else in it) can...
Blind box* toys such as Labubu are hugely popular with children and collectors, but their mystery packaging means buyers don’t know what they’ll get until they open the box. César Albarrán-Torres and Jessica Balanzategui say the chance-based appeal raises questions about gambling-like behaviour. If you walk...
How stores fighting thieves risk putting off shoppers, especially those with disabilities and with kids, report Paul Harpur and Lisa Stafford Retailers are increasing security to deter shoplifting, but locked cabinets, barriers and staff checks can make everyday shopping stressful for parents with prams, children in...
‘Buy it nice or buy it twice’, writes Lorinda Cramer. Rejecting this new world of overconsumption during a cost of living crisis The “frugal chic” aesthetic is having its moment, however contradictory the concept may seem. “Frugal” suggests a focus on thriftiness, while “chic” oozes a...
With Google, YouTube and AI tools at their fingertips, today’s kids can access information instantly—but knowing what counts as their own work is becoming increasingly blurred. Here’s what parents need to understand about plagiarism now. The new reality: information everywhere For today’s students, information isn’t something they...
