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 families get ready for a new school year, many parents are snapping first-day photos and sharing them online. But child safety experts are urging families to pause before posting — warning that even innocent images can reveal far more than intended. Leading child protection organisation...
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...
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 he...
Adults like to talk about ‘big school’. This can make the change seem scary for some children, writes Kelly Simpson. Starting school is a time of great anticipation and excitement for young children and families. The buildup can last for months as children go to orientation...
One in six Australian children grow up experiencing disadvantage, putting them at risk of starting school without the essentials they need to learn and thrive. This summer, the annual Officeworks Back to School Appeal is calling on Australians to help give students a fair start. Helping students...
Megan Boyd offers practical strategies and key tips to help parents ease the back-to-school transition. The first weeks back at school after the holidays can be a challenging adjustment for students as they transition from relaxed routines to structured school days. Parents play an important role...
Looking for more lunch box goodies. Try these simple and healthy muffins from Donna Hay. Ingredients 2 Cups (320g) Wholemeal Self-Raising (Self-Rising) Flour ½ Cup (85g) Rapadura Sugar (available at supermarkets and made from evaporated cane juice). 2 Eggs 1 Cup (250ml) Buttermilk ⅔ Cup (160ml)...
A new school year can see friendships change – this is tough on kids, but parents can help, writes Karyn Healy The start of the school year means new classes, routines, after-school activities and sometimes even a new school. This can be a really exciting time for...
