School holidays and school ovals and playgrounds have been sitting unused. Why aren’t more available to the community? Asks Paul Kidson Schools are full of extremely useful and valuable facilities. These include playing fields, play equipment, sandpits, netball courts, concert halls, libraries and even pools. But these...
Karley Beckman and Tiffani Apps report on why this is important and 3 questions you should ask before you say yes If you are a parent of a school student, you may have received a form seeking permission to use your child’s image on school social...
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)...
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...
The phonics versus whole-language debate is counterproductive when it leads teachers to mindlessly apply one approach to all children. We need teachers who have a repertoire of approaches that includes teaching phonics and also rich whole-language experiences. Moving Beyond the Debate: What Educators Need to Know For teachers,...
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...
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...
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...
Watch shows together, talk about them and have dance parties, writes Jennifer Stokes As January lingers, families may find themselves struggling with what a friend of mine has labelled the “electronic nanny”. Children have been out of their normal routines for weeks during the holidays. Some have...
