Parenting

Parenting with nature in mind
With the holiday season upon us, many parents face the return of screen time battles. But, writes psychologist Megan de Beyer, surrendering to nature might just be what you and your teen need.

My Tiny Humans: Santa is watching
When her kindy kid was being cheeky, Natalie Moutafis found herself reminding him that Santa was watching – and then wondering if this was the best approach.

Best of the Web: How to raise emotionally intelligent kids, and more
Ways to encourage emotionally intelligent kids, helping children who are scared of needles, and why a little lie at Christmas is okay.

Holidays and teen socialising: Why age-appropriate monitoring is vital
With the upcoming summer holiday season, teen parties offer a welcome reprieve to the past 18 months. Drug education expert Paul Dillon writes that they can also provide a 'perfect storm' where things can go wrong quickly.

Kids and Sport: Playing through the pandemic
The latest RCH National Child Health Poll found that half of Australian children have participated in less sport since the pandemic, with one in three doing a lot less or no sport.

Ways to support your teen’s mental health as restrictions ease
Our young people are facing new pressures as we come out of lockdowns and restrictions. Here are nine tips to support them, from Marie Yap, Antony Yorm and Mairead Cardamone-Breen.

Best of the Web: 4 character strengths that help kids learn, and more
How character traits have a profound influence on learning, why grandmothers are so connected to their grandkids, and busting parenting myths by trying to be like Bluey's Dad.

Are you still watching? Screen time tips from the eSafety Commissioner
The hit show Squid Game shows the need to check what your child is watching, writes the eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant.

The golden rules of gap years
As Year 12 students look forward to 2022, some may be considering a gap year. But, writes Dr Judith Locke, it shouldn't be without some agreed guidelines in place.