When logic fails and big emotions take over, Linda Bosnic discovers that a little imagination can go a long way in helping children feel brave again. Bottled Up Fears The life of a four-year-old seems fairly easy and carefree. But every now and again you realise that...
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...
Long weekends like the April ANZAC break often bring families and friends together across generations — and that can be wonderful, but also a little tricky, report Christiane Kehoe and Elizabeth Westrupp When routines shift and different parenting styles collide, it’s not uncommon for another adult...
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...
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...
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...
It’s hard to escape the news right now. From global conflict to political tension, distressing headlines and confronting images are never more than a swipe away — for us, and increasingly, for our children. As parents, we’re walking a delicate line. We want our kids to...
Uri Gal reports that Woolworths has announced a partnership with Google to incorporate agentic artificial intelligence into its “Olive” chatbot, starting in Australia later this year. Until now, Olive has largely answered questions, resolved problems and directed shoppers to information. Soon, Olive will be able to do...
Tyson Gordon said ‘I want someone submissive’ The current season of Married at First Sight is shaping up to be one of the most controversial yet, writes Claudia Young, with the inclusion of Tyson Gordon demonstrating how the manosphere has breached containment. While the producers and Channel...
