Literacy

While ideas of family are changing, from Charles Dickens to Harry Potter, absent parents endure in children’s literature write Dr Eleanor Spencer-Regan and Dr Jade Dillon Craig.

There is growing evidence suggesting difficulties with reading and mental health may be related in some children. Here, Genevieve McArthur shares what parents can do.

The winning poems in the annual Student Poetry Competition run by Independent Schools Victoria have been drawn from close to 600 entries from schools across the state.

The 2023 Children's Book Council of Australia Book of the Year Awards acknowledges the work of writers and illustrators that enrich the imaginations of our young readers.

What to consider when your teen asks for a non-alcoholic beer or wine, self-care tips for parents from mental health experts and how to help young people with dyslexia.

Handwriting is not just about forming letters, write Lucinda McKnight and Maria Nicholas. It also develops fine motor skills, helps with memory and even wellbeing – so AI has not made it redundant.

Boys lag behind girls when it comes to reading, writes Margaret K. Merga. She suggests ways we can make reading fun for boys – not just for school but life.

If you think nursery rhymes are old fashioned, think again, writes Diane Bourke. She explains how they can help launch a child's development.

We're asking parents and grandparents to encourage their young poets to enter our Student Poetry Competition. Diane Bourke suggests ideas and simple activities to help young people enjoy poetry.