We studied the bacteria on kids’ sports mouthguards. The amount can lead to bacterial buildup and potential health risks, report researchers Huseyin Sumer, Bita Zaferanloo and Vito Butardo Jr. Many young Australians are beginning their winter sports season, gearing up for sports such as football, hockey...
New research suggests it can also help mental health, reports Fotini Vasilopoulos, Pretend play is a significant and often magical part of childhood. Children have huge imaginations and use these to turn rocks into spaceships, tables into forts or pens into fairies. They might pretend to be...
Not every celebration needs a birthday cake or a big guest list. From school wins to first jobs—and even lost teeth—everyday milestones can become meaningful family moments if you choose to mark them. Why small celebrations matter In busy family life, it’s easy to save celebrations for...
An old-school family dinner that still earns its place on the table Tuna pasta bake may not be fancy, but that’s part of its charm. It’s warm, filling, kid-friendly and made mostly from pantry and freezer staples. For families watching the grocery budget, it’s also a...
Family laundry has a way of multiplying overnight. From school uniforms and sports gear to mystery stains, missing socks and towels that never seem to dry, the washing basket can feel endless. A few smart systems can make the job quicker, cheaper and less stressful. Make...
Teenagers are growing fast, learning more independence and often making more of their own food choices. But many Australian teens are missing out on the nutritious foods they need, reports Catharine Fleming. Here’s what parents can do to help — without making every meal a...
New safety standards will help, but stay vigilant, advises Yang Xiang. On a quiet suburban street, a modern Australian home wakes before its owners do. The lights turn on automatically, the thermostat adjusts to a comfortable temperature, and the coffee machine begins brewing. A doorbell camera watches...
Researchers, Kelly Garton and Boyd Swinburn report that ultra-processed foods are specifically engineered to be irresistible — using flavour, texture, packaging and marketing tactics that encourage us (and especially children) to keep eating...
A viral parenting trend says 21 minutes a day can help parents reconnect with their children. The idea is simple, but experts say the real value is presence — not a perfect formula....
Feeling overwhelmed, wired or exhausted? asks Amy Loughman. Here’s what people mean when they say the nervous system is overloaded — and simple ways to help the body and mind settle. You might have heard people talking about their nervous system being “overloaded” or “dysregulated”...
