Health & Nutrition more articles

Autism: One family's journey

Amber Robinson April 2 is World Autism Awareness Day. Current statistics indicate that one child in every 160 is diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Australia. Here, grandmother Pamela Maie Young shares the story of her grandson Ben, who was recently diagnosed with the disorder.

Sleep skiing the next big thing

Learning to ski is hard work, especially when you're a kid. It was all too much for this little guy who was so exhausted he fell asleep while still standing on the slopes.

Help autistic to stay afloat

Without specialist school staff, these children will go under, writes one Sydney mother.

Behaviour & Discipline more articles

Encouraging new experiences

Melanie Hearse Can you turn a naturally reluctant child into a spontaneous daredevil?

The age of intolerance

Victoria Birch Do you face the annoyed glares of childless people when you enter public spaces with your kids in tow? Victoria Birch asks whether it is such an unreasonable request to be able to enjoy outings with your kids.

Children banned from restaurant

A controversial US ban has Fenella Souter pondering the merits of a child-free cuppa.

Development more articles

Parenting

The secret lives of boys

Sarah Macdonald How having a son has changed one mother's view of the world.

Maxwell's fight for her son

Chloe Maxwell's autistic son, Max, is her "precious gift" - and her great challenge. She tells of her tearful journey to try to understand the world he lives in.

Killer role models

Paul Chai Why are so many early childhood heroes based on violent killers?

Education more articles

Wiggles shake-up: female back-up dancer joins as three members retire

Christine Sams A 20-year-old back-up dancer will become the first female Wiggle, as part of a major line-up change for the iconic band.

Storytime comes at a cost

Is paying professionals to read stories helping children get ahead or replacing bedtime reading? Cosima Marriner and James Robertson report.

Finding the path from risk to reward

Caroline Milburn An early intervention program that helps children with maths and English also benefits their parents, writes Caroline Milburn.

Activities & Worksheets more activities

Colouring fun - Skateboarding

Entertain the kids with some creative fun by downloading this free printable skateboarding colouring page.

Princess castle colouring page

Do you have a little princess in your house? Download this free printable Princess castle colouring page for some creative fun with your little one.

Wendy the winter doll cutout

Your little girl will have hours of fun dressing Wendy the fashionable paper doll.

Toys & Products more articles

Exclusive sneak peek: DVF Gap Kids

Gap Kids and DVF (Diane von Furstenberg) have joined creative forces to create a stunning line of kids clothes this season. Essential Kids has a sneak peek at the exclusive and limited range only available in Gap Sydney Westfield & Melbourne Chadstone Stores as of 15th March 2012.

Mini vintage

Classic threads for cool kids

Sick of age-inappropriate outfits for their youngsters, many parents are turning to vintage-style labels and classic designs, writes Emily Dunn.