We often talk about “school readiness” in terms of how prepared a child is to begin full time schooling, but what about you as a parent? Are you prepared for the transition to this new phase?... By Catherine Oehlman. Read more.

School hasn’t been a huge issue in our household to date, but it is something Harvey and I have started discussing recently because Noah is now three-and-a-half years old... By Johanna Baker-Dowdell. Read more.

A journalist with a Sunday supplement is hoping to have a quick phone interview with a couple with children who still keep their finances separate. How do you make it work? And why did you decide to manage your money that way? Email: b.hadgraft@optusnet.com.au if you'd like to contribute.

Giving Your Kids The Gift Of Music

As parents and loved ones, we should strive to give our children the tools to build a successful life, and one of the best choices you can make for your children is giving them the gift of music. Learning a musical instrument will help your child develop concentration, coordination, patience and self-confidence...

BOOK NOW - 1300 139 506 or yamahamusic.com.au

Chess Brings Big Benefits To Little Players

'At what age can I introduce my child to chess?'. The answer may surprise, with children as young as three being able to grasp the basic concepts of the game and reap the benefits, developing the ability to plan and consider consequences of their actions, a skill a person is never too young to learn.

Starting kindergarten is one of the biggest milestones for you and your child. Many parents and children feel anxious about this time in their lives, but they need not. The process can be painless and enjoyable, with some simple preparation.
Once you have decided on the right pre-school or kindergarten for your child, there are some simple strategies you can master at home, in order to facilitate your child’s commencement at school. They include developing their fine motor skills and developing a routine, in order to provide the basis for the skills which your child will learn at school: language skills, writing skills, mathematics, personal/social and physical skills.
Examples of the types of skills your child will be expected to have mastered are outlined below:

Recognizing their written name, and starting to use a pencil to form their own name

Sitting in a circle and sitting still

Singing and sharing jokes

Understands the concept of sharing

Recognising basic shapes and colours

Unpacking their own lunchbox

Dressing themselves and tying their shoe laces

Toilet and hand washing

Ensure your child is confident to do these tasks by themselves before they start ‘big school’. Talk to your day care centre or pre school centre director and find out what they are doing to prepare your child for school.

What will my child learn at kindy?

The NSW primary curriculum issued by the DEET, ensures that your child will complete studies in each of the six Key Learning Areas (known in short as KLAs), whether your child attends a school in the state or private sector, these KLAs are compulsory.

Right now I am facing the dilemma shared by many parents at this time of year. To send or not to send? I am so torn about whether or not my son is ready to start school next year... By Mihiri Udabage. Read more.

Since I was a little girl I remember nights when Mum would have her head buried in a book that she desperately wanted to finish before ‘Bookclub’. In my mind Bookclub was something for people a lot older than me - for Mums... By Tanya Duncan. Read more.

Pre loved uniforms are usually sold in good condition. Find out when your school uniform shop operates a pre loved stall and save heaps.

Save $$ by avoiding designer lunch boxes, bags and stationery and purchase anti bacterial food storage in your local supermarket, which your child can decorate and personalize themselves.

Label, Label, Label! All personal belongings, including uniforms, shoes, hats, socks raincoats, bags, sunscreen, anything and everything must be labeled your child’s full name and class.

Speak with your tax advisor about expenses you can claim for ‘back to school’ and ensure you keep receipts for claimable items.

Avoid getting into a lunch order habit and prepare packed lunches that will provide enough nutrients and energy to see your child through the day. It’s easier to prepare at night and pop in the fridge and you can slip a little 'I love you' note from Mum in sometimes too.

Win 1 of 2 organic baby clothing packs valued at over $90

Choose the best for your baby and the earth at Down to Earth Baby. They offer a fabulous range of natural and eco-friendly products for mums and bubs.

Parenting Australia and Down to Earth Baby have two gift packs valued at over $90 to give away. Eack pack contains a singlet bodysuit, eczema friendly sleepsuit and super cute romper.

Get Big Discounts on Kids Stuff - The Easy Way.