Should anti-bullying approaches encourage kids to be ‘upstanders’?

Should anti-bullying approaches encourage kids to be ‘upstanders’? The evidence is not clear, writes Karyn Healy School bullying is one of the most serious issues facing Australian schools. Students who are bullied can be left psychologically and emotionally devastated for years afterwards. Recently, the federal government released the results of a rapid review into bullying. Among the recommendations,...

EDITOR’S PICKS

Book Review: Do you know a youngster about to start school?
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...
Editor
22 January, 2026
What makes a good school for your child?
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...
Editor
15 January, 2026
Should kids at least do a little bit of school work over the holidays?
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...
Editor
09 January, 2026
Aussie Summer Holiday Kids & Family Movies
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...
Editor
18 December, 2025
School Holiday Survival Guide: Summer 2025-26 National Edition
These holidays are a great time to get outside, try something new, or mix low-key and special outings so downtime still feels interesting. Outdoors, family and long lazy days — Summer school holidays are here! Whether you’re after outdoor adventures, rainy-day escapes, or unique family...
Editor
11 December, 2025
Book Reviews: Some seasonal books for younger readers
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...
Editor
11 December, 2025

Celebrating Mothers

When Starting School Is Harder on Parents Than Children
Starting school was a far bigger wrench for me than it was for my son, writes Cathy Watson “Sending my second child – my ‘soft’ son – into the ruthless world of school was a harsh concept and I struggled with it far more than...
Editor
22 January, 2026
The Beautiful Chaos of Raising Girls: Lessons From a Mum in the Middle
Kate Wattus ponders the nature of her relationships with her two girls. “But I don’t want my hair done today!” harrumphs my seven-year-old princess, arms folded and eyebrows pushed so low as to almost completely cover her eyes as well as half her face. “Well...
Editor
11 December, 2025
Siblings at Birth: What Really Happens (and How to Decide)
Deciding whether your children should be present during the birth of a new sibling is a deeply personal choice. Some families find it beautiful and bonding; others discover that labour is simply too intense for young kids. Author Gabrielle Targett shares her real-life experiences and...
Editor
27 November, 2025
A Mark Of Motherhood: Fertility, Letting Go and the Tattoo That Says It All
Kate Wattus seeks a permanent symbol of her fertility. Waiting for the Needle: A Calm Exterior, Shaky Hands As I try to anticipate the itchy sting of the buzzing needle, I sit with my legs outstretched and read my library book, a picture of calm...
Editor
27 November, 2025