What do most people mean by “happiness”? asks Dr Caroline West and other philosophers. Is maximising pleasure and enjoyment really our ultimate aim, as some studies argue? Some influential studies show that the decision to have kids leads to greater suffering — at least for parents....
As Susan Macciocca’s son begins school, both she and her son are learning to let go. My son watches intently as his bike is transformed. He grabs the handlebars and strides with the bike to the footpath. His dad holds him by the shoulders to get...
Tanya Cupitt’s son takes some time to settle in to school. Daniel, my firstborn son, was completely normal from the word go. I had a normal pregnancy, and he was a normal weight, length and breadth at birth. A regular baby, toddler and child. He did...
Social Worker, Priscilla Dunk-West gives some practical advice for parents. In Australia, around 21,000 divorces involving children occur annually. Separation and divorce can be an emotionally exhausting and difficult time, something which is recognised by the Family Court of Australia, which provides resources to assist people...
A push to raise the school starting age to 6 sounds like good news for parents, write Amanda Niland and Marianne Fenech. But there’s a catch The decision about whether to send a child to school “early” or “hold them back” can be a tortuous one...
Here’s how to protect the kids’ mental health, writes Rachael Sharman There’s an annual underground phenomena happening right now around Australia: couples who have decided to separate, but are putting on a happy face to perform their final Christmas as an intact family. January is known...
Every year we have the opportunity to review and remind ourselves of what is needed to prepare for the start of the new school year. Some great articles from our archives will cover most of what you need to review! Firstly, is your child ready to...
Here's how you can help, writes Mandie Shean Starting school is an important event for children and a positive experience can set the tone for the rest of their school experience. Some children are excited to attend school for the first time, yet others feel anxious. Back...
A post-holiday slump is normal, reports Libby (Elizabeth) Sander, but these clues signal it’s time for a new job If you’ve found yourself feeling a bit flat after returning to work (or outright hating your job) this year, you’re not alone. #BackToWork is trending for Australia...
No sooner than the Christmas tree is boxed away and the holiday suitcases are unpacked, it’s time to get the kids ready for the new school year. Making the most of the long break is the key to a smooth start, says primary school teacher,...
