Looking for books that will keep kids coming back for more? Series fiction is a brilliant way to build reading confidence and momentum — once children connect with the characters, they’re hooked. From gentle adventures and animal tales to imaginative fantasy worlds, these newer series...

When logic fails and big emotions take over, Linda Bosnic discovers that a little imagination can go a long way in helping children feel brave again. Bottled Up Fears The life of a four-year-old seems fairly easy and carefree. But every now and again you realise that...

Looking for a fun (and free) school holiday activity? A nationwide bike “treasure hunt” is back this Easter — and families could win brand-new bikes just by solving clues and getting outdoors. The Pedal Heist returns this Easter with free bikes hidden across Australia. Here’s...

5 top tips for the perfect compost – according to science, writes Gregory Moore. It all comes down to understanding the requirements of the bacteria and fungi that do most of the decomposing and the processes of cellular respiration.  As a young boy, I had to...

It's defined as a traditional Japanese aesthetic: the beauty of something perfectly imperfect. Trevor Mazzucchelli asks "Will this Japanese philosophy make me happy?" The ceramic bowl with an uneven glaze. The teacup mended with gold lacquer. The images are calming and attractive. They are said to reflect wabi-sabi...

Ready in 30 minutes, with juicy chicken and pillowy gnocchi smothered in a dreamy Parmesan cream sauce with sun-dried tomatoes. Prep time: 5 mins Cooking time: 25 mins Serves 5 Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Ingredients 30 ml olive oil 816 g boneless skinless chicken breasts 1 tsp salt 1 tsp black pepper 1...

Australians buy billions of drink containers every year, but not all packaging is recycled equally. Understanding what happens after a can or bottle goes in the recycling bin can help families make small choices that reduce waste. Billions of drink containers every year Australians buy enormous numbers...

If you pack school lunchboxes for your children, writes Neha Lalchandani, you’ll know it can sometimes feel like a real slog. It needs to be easy to prepare, nutritious and something children will actually eat. On top of this, there is increasing awareness it should be friendly...