It’s hurting their mental health, report researchers Dr Tania King and Jennifer Ervin Billions of hours are spent in unpaid labour across the globe every day. It's a burden that is disproportionately shouldered by women. But in comparison to paid work, unpaid labour is an under-researched topic,...
Sheree Gleeson observes her sons and their friends as they negotiate their alliances. With four boys between us, the bond between my closest friend and I sometimes gets a robust work-out. Last week, Abby phoned. “I’m sending your two home and Finn to his bedroom,” she...
You can start with these books, suggests Emma Whatman and Paul Venzo Parents will be increasingly aware they need to talk about consent with their children. There is no such thing as “too young” to start the conversation. In fact, the earlier the better, when it comes...
Treasured objects link the generations of a family, explains Kristen Hains. For my last birthday, I received a baby rattle. This rattle came delicately wrapped, with a note from my grandma: “This was given to your grandfather when he was born in 1922”. I’ve always thought...
Here’s what they said, writes researcher Sharon Bessell What does a “fair go” look like for Australian children? We asked 130 children aged between seven and 13 years what makes communities strong, supportive, and fair. Many felt communities are about care and connection. As one ten-year-old girl...
Cathy Watson examines her part-time job’s full-time effect on family life. “Mina is taking you to the park this morning,” I said brightly. “I don’t want to go to the park.” Fierce, small three-year-old face, looking defiant. “But it will be fun at the park! Mina...
Sexual sparks fly when partners do their share of chores – including calling the plumber, write researchers Simone Buzwell and Eva Johansen When a comic about “mental load” went viral in 2017, it sparked conversations about the invisible workload women carry. Even when women are in...
Kate King reflects as she starts to see herself in her kids. Sensible eating habits, sun safety, good manners, respect for the environment and positive relationships are some of the things I consciously model for my children. While it’s rewarding to see my little sponges absorb...
The research might surprise you, writes Sarah Blunden Clueless actor Alicia Silverstone recently told a podcast she co-sleeps with her 11-year-old son, explaining she is “just following nature”. “Bear and I still sleep together,” she told The Ellen Fisher Podcast last month. “I’ll be in trouble for...
COVID changed drop-off and pick ups – but parents can still have a strong relationship with their child’s educators, write researchers Katherine Bussey, Deborah Moore, Natalie Robertson and Shelli Giosis One of the most obvious changes COVID has made to early childhood education in Australia has...
