Adults like to talk about ‘big school’. This can make the change seem scary for some children, writes Kelly Simpson. Starting school is a time of great anticipation and excitement for young children and families. The buildup can last for months as children go to orientation...
Pool parties, icy poles, brightly coloured swimmers and backyard barbecues — for many Australian families, summer and water go hand in hand. But while water play is a cherished part of childhood, it also brings very real risks. Drowning remains one of the leading causes of...
Busy weeknights call for low-effort, high-reward dinners — and these slow cooker chicken tacos deliver. Simply add the ingredients, let the slow cooker do the work, then shred and serve in tacos, burritos or salads. Perfect for young budding chefs to try! Prep time: 5 minutes| Cooking...
Want to get your younger teens reading books this summer? Try these kid reviewed books says Kate Douglas, Around the world, young people are reading for pleasure less often, suggests a recent report. In Australia, 29% of high school students don’t read in their free time....
Sarah Jefferson asks could a little bit of school work over the holidays help? As the summer holidays progress, parents may feel concerned their children will “forget how to spell their own names” during the long school break. Or there may be worries about forgetting times tables,...
Expert, Matthew Thompson's, pick of the best board games to play (and gift) this summer In a world that can seem increasingly digitised and isolating, board games offer a unique chance to connect with others. And over the holiday period, the right game can make all the...
Julie Choi gives 5 tips to help your child strengthen their heritage language during the holidays About 5.7 million Australians speak a language other than English at home. Most multilingual children spend their school days speaking English and during term-time, home languages often take a back...
It’s a pool party! But can you navigate pool safety while ensuring the kids have heaps of fun? asks Amy Peden It’s summer so kids’ playdates and birthday parties might start moving from the playground to the pool. I research how to prevent drowning. I’m also a...
Cameron Webb asks why do I really need them in Australia? Summer’s here and after a wet spring in many parts of Australia, mosquitoes are out in force. Insect repellent has become a routine requirement for time outdoors. But how safe are they? And do we really...
With long summer days, family road trips and more time away from screens, podcasts are a brilliant way to keep kids entertained, informed and inspired — without relying on social media. From Aussie-made favourites to trusted international shows loved by Australian families, these podcasts are perfect...
