Katharine Clifton has a less-than-enthusiastic response to her daughter being assessed as gifted. Almost six months ago, my daughter was diagnosed as gifted. It came about when she performed well beyond expectations in a vocabulary test at her three-and-a-half-year check-up and the maternal health nurse suggested...
Jennifer Aberhart recalls what homework meant when she was a child and wonders what today’s version is really teaching children. The Evolution of Homework Most grandparents would agree that the concept of homework has undergone a complete transformation. Naturally, parenting styles and socioeconomic factors influence child-rearing, but...
Daryl Higgins and Gabrielle Hunt report on why sleepovers can be a fun part of childhood, and can foster independence, friendship, and resilience. Feeling unsure about your child going to a sleepover is completely normal. You might be worried about how well you know the host family,...
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...
Some vegetables are pretty low in fibre, report Lauren Ball and Emily Burch. So which pack the biggest fibre punch? Many people looking to improve their health try to boost fibre intake by eating more vegetables. But while all veggies offer health benefits, not all are particularly...
Looking for lunch box goodies that are easy-to-eat and bursting with deliciousness. Try these simple scrolls from Donna Hay. Cheesy Tomato Scrolls Ingredients 2 Cups (300g) Wholemeal Plain (All-Purpose) Flour 2 Cups (300g) Plain (All-Purpose) Flour, Plus Extra for Dusting 1 Cup (80g) Finely Grated Parmesan 1...
Educators David Wylde and Marilyn Heins discuss the differences between boys and girls and how they affect how we raise them. How Male and Female Brains Process Emotions Differently It is known that there are differences in development and function between male and female brains. In most...
Australian families are choosing private schools more than ever before – we need to understand why, reports Sally Larsen The shape of Australia’s school system is undergoing a significant change. Enrolments in independent schools are growing, while fewer students attend public schools. Why are more families choosing...
With a new school term starting how can you tell if your child is ready for a smartphone? Asks Joanne Orlando. What are the alternatives? The start of the school year means some parents will be asking a big question: is it time for a child’s...
Ellen Notbohm argues that we need to understand the causes of inappropriate behaviour in children with special needs, and examine what our own behaviour is telling them. Teaching appropriate behaviour is always at the forefront of discussions about raising children, particularly children with autism or ADHD...
