Parentopia - December 2024

THE TRUSTED GUIDE TO PRODUCTS, SERVICES AND RESOURCES FOR FAMILIES CHILDREN AND FAM MILIES

MORE CHILDREN UNDER DENTAL PROGRAM

CALL IT OUT

Issue 1 | Volume 3 November 2024 www.parentopia.au

MEMPHIS IDEAL FOR YOUNG MINDS

WHY GRANDPARENTS MATTER

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IDS Helpline is calling for urgent action to combat the rise in bullying among Australian teens, with their recent survey revealing 85% of young people have experienced bullying. In the last year, over 3,000 of Kids Helpline counselling sessions were directly related to this issue, highlighting the need for more intervention.

Australia ranks second highest for teen bullying among 24 OECD countries. SEE INSIDE

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BURNING ISSUE

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SHOULD CHILDREN UNDER 10 USE MOBILE PHONES?

Pros and cons of a key question N today’s digital age, mobile phones are ubiquitous, and their presence in the hands of young children has become a common sight. Many parents grapple with the question: Should children under 10 use mobile phones?

While technology offers undeniable benefits, there are also significant risks that need to be considered. This article Parenropia explores the pros, cons, and best practices surrounding children under 10 using mobile phones.

line privacy, the importance of not sharing personal information, and recognizing inappropriate content or behavior.

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Lead by example Children often mimic adult behavior. Demonstrating healthy mobile phone habits, like putting devices away during family time, sets a positive example.

Encourage alternatives Promote activities that don’t involve screens, such as outdoor play, reading physical books, or engaging in hobbies like painting or sports.

Benefits and advantages Educational opportunities

Finding the right balance

Mobile phones can serve as powerful learning tools. Numerous apps are designed to enhance children’s literacy, numeracy, and problem-solving skills. Interactive games and e-books engage young minds and make learning enjoyable, often supplementing traditional education.

Mobile phones can be both beneficial and harmful for children under 10, depending on how they are used. While the educational and safety aspects are appealing, the potential risks require vigilant monitoring and proactive measures from parents.

Ultimately, whether a child under 10 should use a mobile phone depends on individual family values, circumstances, and the child’s maturity level.

By setting boundaries and fostering open communication, parents can ensure that technology enhances, rather than detracts from, a child’s development.

In the end, the goal is to equip children with the skills and judgment they need to navigate the digital world responsibly while safeguarding their well-being.

Communication and safety For children attending school or extracurricular activities, having a mobile phone allows parents to maintain contact. In emergencies, children can quickly reach out for help, providing peace of mind for families.

Tech proficiency Exposing children to mobile phones at an early age fosters digital literacy, a critical skill in today’s world.

Learning to navigate technology responsibly can prepare them for future academic and professional environments.

Entertainment and creativity

Exposure to inappropriate content

Mobile devices can stimulate creativity through art and music apps, as well as provide entertainment during long trips or waiting periods. Moderated exposure to such tools can inspire young minds.

Despite parental controls, children can accidentally access inappropriate or harmful content. This includes violence, explicit material, or online interactions with strangers.

Risks and concerns Screen time overload Excessive screen time can lead to health issues, including eye strain, sleep disturbances, and a sedentary lifestyle. It can also detract from physical activities, imaginative play, and face-toface social interactions that are vital for a child’s development.

Dependence and addiction Young minds are particularly susceptible to developing habits of overuse, potentially leading to mobile phone dependency. Constant notifications and engaging apps can interfere with attention spans and focus.

Privacy and cybersecurity risks Children are often unaware of online safety measures, making them vulnerable to privacy breaches, scams, or cyberbullying. Without proper guidance,

they might inadvertently share personal information or interact with malicious content.

Best practices for parents Set clear boundaries Establish rules for when and how mobile phones can be used. Limit screen time and encourage a balance between online and offline activities.

Use parental controls Leverage built-in features and apps to monitor and restrict access to certain content.

This ensures a safer browsing and app usage experience for young children.

Teach responsible usage Help children understand the potential dangers of mobile phones. Teach them about on-

Let us know how you feel about children under 10 using mobile phones: connect@parentopia.au

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PARENTING

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| 3

IMPORTANCE OF GRANDPARENTS IN A CHILD’S LIFE

Lessens in resilience and adaptability RANDPARENTS hold a special place in the lives of children, offering a unique blend of love, wisdom, and support that plays a critical role in their upbringing.

As society evolves, the bond between grandparents and grandchildren remains a cornerstone of family life, providing emotional, social, and cultural benefits that contribute to a child’s overall development.

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Emotional Anchors and Unconditional Love One of the most cherished aspects of grandparents is the unconditional love they offer. Unlike parents, who often balance affection with the responsibilities of discipline and day-to-day caregiving, grandparents can provide a more relaxed and indulgent kind of love.

This deep emotional connection offers children a sense of security and belonging. Grandparents are often seen as a “safe haven,” a place where children can share their fears, dreams, and feelings without judgment. This nurturing presence is particularly valuable during times of family stress or transitions, such as divorce, relocation, or the arrival of a new sibling.

A Source of Wisdom and Life Lessons Grandparents are living repositories of life experience. Their stories about the past help children connect with their family’s history and cultural heritage. These anecdotes provide valuable lessons about resilience, adaptability, and morality.

For instance, a grandparent’s tale about overcoming adversity can inspire children to develop a positive outlook on challenges. This perspective is especially important in a world where children face increasing pressures from school, peers, and social media.

Moreover, grandparents often model qualities such as patience, kindness, and empathy, which children absorb through observation and interaction.

These traits are essential for building strong relationships and navigating life’s complexities.

families living in multicultural or fastpaced environments.

Through activities like cooking traditional meals, celebrating holidays, or teaching old songs, grandparents pass down practices that preserve a family’s heritage. This connection to the past helps children develop a stronger sense of self and pride in their background.

Supportive Role in Parenting For many families, grandparents are a vital part of the support system. They often provide childcare, freeing up parents to focus on work or personal obligations.

This intergenerational involvement strengthens family bonds and creates a sense of community within the household.

Grandparents can also act as mediators during family conflicts, offering perspective and advice to both parents and children. Their calm demeanor and life experience can help resolve disagreements and foster understanding.

Bridging Generational Gaps Grandparents serve as a bridge between generations, fostering a sense of continuity and identity within the family. They help children understand their cultural roots, traditions, and values, which can be particularly important for

games, these shared moments are filled with joy and learning.

For children, these interactions are not just fun but also contribute to cognitive and emotional development. The slower pace and focused attention that grandparents provide contrast with the often hectic schedules of modern parenting, giving children a chance to relax and explore their interests.

Fostering Play and Creativity Grandparents often have the time and patience to engage in activities that stimulate a child’s imagination and creativity. Whether it’s gardening, crafting, storytelling, or simply playing

A Lasting Impact The influence of grandparents extends well into adulthood. Children who have strong relationships with their grandparents are more likely to develop emotional resilience, a sense of identity, and an appreciation for family ties. These relationships leave a legacy of love and wisdom that shapes their character and values.

In a world that is increasingly fastpaced and fragmented, the role of grandparents is more important than ever.

Their presence provides a grounding influence, reminding children of the enduring power of family and connection.

By fostering these relationships, families can ensure that the invaluable gifts grandparents offer are cherished and preserved for generations to come.

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NEWS

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$17.1M grant for Kids Helpline HE NSW Government is helping improve access to essential mental health support for young people through a $17.M investment in Kids Helpline, providing greater access to free counselling services for children and young people facing emotional distress or mental health challenges.

Community organisation Yourtown which runs Kids Helpline will use the funding to recruit up to 28 additional full time equivalent (FTE) counsellors based in NSW, providing greater access to the service in response to increasing demaand.

The funding will help develop counsellors with additional practical skills to help them provide better support and strengthen the integration of Kids Helpline with local, area and state-wide services across mental health, child protection, education, employment and other social systems.

Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800) operates 24/7 and provides age-appropriate online and phone counselling and support for young people aged 5 to 25.

Last year, the national service took more than 40,000 calls, mostly from teenagers aged 15-18.

Children and young people reach out for a range of reasons, including support related to mental health, family problems, school and peer pressures, personal challenges or emotional distress.

Kids Helpline helps young people express their feelings and feel listened to, while providing ideas and support and often connecting them to local mental health services.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing remains the number one reason that children and young people

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NSW Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson.

contact Kids Helpline. pline.

Kids Helplinee Manager Tony Fitzgerald said: said id:: “We are privileged ed to receive this very substantial funding support to continue Kids Helpline’s critical ritical role within the wellbeing eing and mental health system. ystem.

“Specifically, this contribution willl advance our work with up to 28 additional Kids Helpline counsellors lors being onboarded d over the next four years ars to take meaningful ful action to improve e support to New South Wales children and nd young people.”

Minister for Mental Health and Youth Rose Jack-son said the 17M M funding deliverss on our election commmitment and shows ows that the government ment is committed to supporting kids struggling uggling with mental health alth issues.

Visit: www.kidshelpline.com.au pline.com.au

Push to seek support for bullying IDS Helpline is calling for urgent action to combat the rise in bullying among Australian teens, with their recent survey revealing 85% of young people have experienced bullying.

In the last year, over 3,000 of Kids Helpline counselling sessions were directly related to this issue, highlighting the need for more intervention.

Australia ranks second highest for teen bullying among 24 OECD countries.

To tackle the issue, Kids Helpline has teamed up with Instagram to launch “How Do You Mean?” (kidshelpline.

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com.au/how-do-you-mean), a campaign to empower young people to recognise, report, and seek support for bullying.

The Instagram series features Australian content creators Ben McIntosh (@ benjmcintosh), Brock Valesini (@brockvalesinii), Sasha Tyers (@sashatyers) and Taz Zammit and Alessia Allfree (@tazandalessia), sharing their own experiences and practical tips to support young people experience bullying online and in their lives, with helpful tips on how to activate Instagram features to support wellbeing

online.

Kids Helpline Virtual Services Manager Tony FitzGerald said education is key to helping teens understand, recognise, and respond to bullying. “‘How Do You Mean?’ provides practical strategies and encourages open conversations to create more compassionate, safer spaces for everyone,” he said.

More than 178,000 individuals have accessed bullying-related information on Kids Helpline’s website this year.

Mr FitzGerald added the campaign is essential not just to educate young people but to reassure those experiencing bullying that there is a way through it.

“The mental health impact of bullying can be profound, impacting self-esteem and overall wellbeing, which is why it’s vital to remember that support is always available,” he said.

Meta’s Regional Director of Public Policy Mia Garlick said Meta recognises the importance of protecting the wellbeing and safety of young

people on their platforms.

Kids Helpline’s practical steps for managing bullying: • Get Social Support: Spend time with friends who value you for who you are or focus on building new friendships.

• Do What You Love: Engage in enjoyable activities to reduce stress.

• Focus on Strengths: Celebrate your uniqueness and talents, rather than letting bullying define you.

• Seek Professional Help: Experts can provide tailored advice and support.

• Report it: It’s important to report bullying to a trusted adult or through online tools. The only person who benefits from you not reporting is the person doing the bullying.

• Remember It Gets Better: Bullying is a temporary challenge - many have overcome it and so can you. https://kidshelpline.com.au/how-doyou-mean Kids Helpline is available 24/7 for any reason. Young people can call 1800 551 800 or chat online at www. kidshelpline.com.au.

HEALTH

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| 5

FREE DENTAL CHECK-UPS

More children under school program FREE dental check for public schools across NSW is celebrating its 1000th public school visit this week, after the NSW Government expanded the program to more school children across NSW. 300,000 public school students have been offered the Primary School Mobile Dental Program since it began in 2019 with three local health districts added to the program in 2023.

New districts added include Far West, Northern NSW and Illawarra Shoalhaven LHDs which have collectively visited 38 schools, providing checks for almost 2,400 kids since being added to the program last year.

The mobile dental clinics visit participating primary schools across eleven Local Health Districts and provide on-site dental check-ups, cleans, x-rays and other preventive treatments, as well as education on good oral hygiene practices.

This initiative not only addresses immediate dental needs but also equips children with the knowledge to maintain their oral health.

If a child needs follow-up dental care, public dental service staff will contact parents and carers to discuss options for treatment, which may include further treatment at the school or a local dental clinic.

In addition to the Primary School Mobile Dental Program, all children under 18 years of age can access free dental care provided by NSW Health at public dental clinics.

This is part of the NSW Government’s plan to build a better NSW and ensure people have access to the essential services like education and healthcare that they rely on.

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The mobile dental clinic.

For more information, visit: [health.nsw.gov.au/oralhealth] health.nsw.gov.au/oralhealth

Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said: “It is fantastic to see that the dental van has made 1,000 visits to public schools across NSW, offering free check-ups to many public school students.

“Providing free dental care is a win-win for parents, particularly in a cost-of-living crisis.

“The dental van is a fantastic program, that has given thousands of students access to free dental care, and helped public school students to learn healthy habits from an early age.”

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Your partner in Early Learning As part of our ongoing support as a key supplier in the Early Learning sector, we provide centres with tools and assets which assist in Quality Area 2 - Toileting & Nappy Changing Principles and Practices.

During visits, authorised officers may look for and discuss a range of topics which demonstrate that educators are supporting children’s wellbeing while maintaining hygienic practices. Our free Nappy Change and Toilet Training charts help to show how these policies and procedures are being followed and reinforced in your centres and promote safe and hygienic practices to ensure better care outcomes.

At your request, we also provide a suite of branded assets to support your centre marketing activity.

Nappy Change Guide

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CHILDHOOD AWARDS

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Scenes form this year’s awards gala event.

WINNERS OF THE 2024 EXCELLENCE IN

Early Childhood Education Awards N a beautiful Saturday night, November 2, 2024 the annual Excellence in Early Childhood Education Gala Awards Night was held at the Hyatt Regency, Sydney.

With a 344% increase in nominations and hence 700 guests in attendance, the Excellence in Early Childhood Education Awards has set a new NSW and national record of being the largest and the most sought after awards platform!

We congratulate again this year's finalists as they illustrate the best of the best that early childhood education and care offer to children, their families as well as NSW and Australia.

We also thank our important sponsors who were tremendously significant in ensuring the Awards' success, namely Guild Insurance, Guild Early Learning, KKTC, Huggies and Nova Employment.

Finally, congratulations to the following winners of the 2024 Excellence in Early Childhood Education Awards:

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3 Bears Cottage Early Education Service (Coffs Harbour, NSW) Outcomes for Children (Preschool) Excellence Award All 4 Kids Kindergarten (Mulgoa, NSW) Excellence in Environmental Program Amigoss Spanish Bilingual Childcare (Glebe, NSW) Excellence in Partnerships with Families Busy Bees at Georges Hall (Georges Hall, NSW) Metropolitan Business Excellence Award Cambridge Hills Preschool (Rankin

Park, NSW) Small Regional/Ruyral Business Excellence Award Asma Niyaz of Clovel Childcare & Early Learning Centre (Blacktown, NSW) Certificate III in Early Childhood Education & Care Trainee Excellence Award Kate Nolan of Clovel Childcare & Early Learning Centre (Blacktown, NSW) Female Educator Excellence Award Devonshire Street Children's Centre (Chatswood, NSW) Excellence in Multicultural Program Award Fauna Place Early Education Centre (Kirrawee, NSW) Excellence in Australian History & Culture Award Gilgandra Preschool (Gilgandra, NSW) Small Community Regional & Rural Service Excellence Award Kristy Hyndes of Gilgandra Preschool (Gilgandra, NSW) Educational Leader Excellence Award Jess Kourembes of Gumnut Kidz (Narellan, NSW) Young Female Educator Excellence Award HazelGrove Early Education Centre (Baulkham Hills, NSW) Outcomes for Children (Birth to 3 years) Excellence Award Hunter Valley Grammar School Early Learning Centre (Ashtonfield, NSW) Large Community Regional/Rural Service Excellence Award Timothy Parkes of Jenny's Kindergarten - Emerald Hills (Leppington, NSW)

Young Male Educator Excellence Award Junior Einsteins Flinders (Flinders, NSW) Excellence in Children's Well-being & Health Award Little Miracles (Tuggerah, NSW) Excellence in Educational Program & Practice Award Little Treasures Childcare (Greta, NSW) Excellence in Food & Nutrition Award Little Treasures Childcare (Greta, NSW) Large Regional/Rural Business Excellence Award Tenneal Gerardis of Liv2Learn Early Education (Thirlmere, NSW) Service Support Person Excellence Award Liv2Learn Early Education (Thirlmere, NSW) Large Priuvate Regional/Rural Service Excellence Award Meek's Preschool & Early Learning Centre (Berkshire Park, NSW) Most Inclusive Employer Excellence Award Milieu Early Education and Care (Condell Park, NSW) Excellence in Food & Menu Design Award Millthorpe Little Learning Centre (Millthorpe, NSW) Team Excellence Award - Regional/ Rural Service Narrabeen Children's Centre (Narrabeen, NSW) Large Community Metropolitan Service Excellence Award Oakville Preschool Learning Centre (Oakville, NSW) Team Excellence Award - Metropol-

itan Service Oakville Preschool Learning Centre (Oakville, NSW) Employer Excellence Award Bradley Campbell of Pied Piper Preschool (Wallerawang, NSW) Male Educator Excellence Award Randwick Open Care for Kids (Randwick, NSW) Small Community Metropolitan Service Excellence Award Rise and Shine Kindergarten (Summer Hill, NSW) Large Private Metropolitan Service Excellence Award Scribbles & Giggles Childcare Centre (Leppington, NSW) Excellence in Inclusivity Practices Award Sutherland Shire Council Children's Services (Sutherland, NSW) Excellence in Inclusivity Practices Award The Honey Tree Preschool (Bellbird, NSW) Small Private Regiona/Rural Service Excellence Award The Honey Tree Preschool (Bellbird, NSW) Excellence in Community Involvement Award Angelina Bainou of Young Academics Early Learning Centre (Harris Park, NSW) Diploma of Early Childhood Education & Care Excellence Award Young Academics Early Learning Centre (Woodcroft, NSW) Small Private Metropolitan Service Excellence Award For information/clarification, contact ACA NSW via 1300 556 330 or nsw@childcarealliance. org.au.

EDUCATION

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| 9

SCHOOL TEACHER NAMED ONE OF

The best child educators again YLVIA Arotin was the inaugural winner of the prestigious NEiTA Trustees' Alumni Award in recognition of her ongoing excellence as a past NEiTA winner, and a $10,000 professional development grant from NEiTA Foundation.

As the owner and director of My Montessori Education Centre in Kellyville (NSW), an independent community-based early childhood school, Sylvia’s Trustees' Alumni Award follows her NEiTA Seed Award, which she won in 2023.

“Winning the NEiTA Award last year was transformative. It kickstarted a series of awards including an Australian Small Business Champion in Children’s Services Award and most recently Women Changing the World in Education Silver Trophy presented by The Duchess of York in London,” Sylvia said.

“It also lifted my profile to be able to host professional development workshops for other educators and also those in the medical field to help them understand how to communicate more effectively with children.

“The professional development grant from The NEiTA Foundation allowed me to re-open a classroom for our baby and toddler program, which had to close during the COVID-19 pandemic. Being able to restore this space for our community has been incredible.”

Sylvia is also the founder of Guide & Grow, an online platform designed to equip families with the resources and support they need to implement Montessori principles at home.

S

Sylvia Arotin teaching.

“Guide & Grow has more than 365,000 members globally,” Sylvia said.“I’m incredibly proud of what it has become.

It’s rewarding to know I’m making a difference in homes around the world.”

Sylvia is on a mission to enhance outcomes for children by bridging the gap between school and home, ensuring Montessori principles can be effectively applied in both environments.“My Montessori

journey hasn’t been easy. It’s been long and lonely at times, however, it’s moments like this that make it all worth it,” Sylvia said.

“Recognition like this fuels my passion to continue making a difference in the way we shape our future generations.”

NEiTA Foundation Chair, Catherine O’Sullivan, said educators like Sylvia exemplify the power of exceptional teaching and leadership.

“Sylvia is a dedicated, compassionate, and transformative force in education,” Catherine said.

"As a remarkable teacher, Sylvia is influencing the trajectory of future generations and leaving an enduring legacy on the lives of countless students.

“The My Montessori School and the wider Western Sydney community, as well as the online Guide & Grow community, are enriched thanks to Sylvia’s ability to motivate, educate,

and inspire the next generation of young minds.

“Over three incredible decades, the National Excellence in Teaching Awards has recognised more than 1,100 exceptional educators and gifted more than $1.4 million in professional development grants and prizes.

"We are thrilled to honour Sylvia once again, she’s the perfect embodiment of what this esteemed alumni award is all about."

Careers in childhood education with TAFE OCALS from Sydney’s Northwest are future proofing their careers by upskilling in priority industries with TAFE NSW, including early childhood education and care.

According to the 2023 Australian Government Productivity Commission Report, nearly half of one-year-olds and about 90 percent of four-yearolds attend some form of early childhood education and care. Demand for skilled workers is forecast to grow 22 percent by 2026, and with the NSW Government’s recent $769 million pledge to build 100 preschools by 2027, TAFE NSW is delivering the hands-on training future educators need to gain

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employment.

TAFE NSW Meadowbank graduate and Parramatta resident Jennifer Gerber chose to study the fee-free Certificate III and Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care after being made redundant from her IT job within a school during COVID. “I was particularly interested in working in an education environment,” Ms Gerber said. “I started by completing a Certificate III as a teacher’s aide and then I signed up Early Childhood Education and Care course. I have loved learning over the past couple of years at TAFE. All the teachers are knowledgeable and experienced in working in the

Early Childhood Education and Care Sector.

“Since graduating I’ve worked in casual roles at early learning centres and as a room leader within the Early Childhood Education and Care Sector. When the children are playing and learning, I love interacting with them to maximise their learning and growth.”

TAFE NSW Chief Delivery Officer, Janet Schorer said TAFE NSW is committed to delivering a pipeline of skilled workers to meet the growing demand in Sydney’s northwest region.

“Jennifer Gerber is an example of the high-quality graduates TAFE NSW

is training to meet skills demand now and into the future.

“Over the next 10 years, more than 9 out of 10 new jobs will require post-secondary qualifications. TAFE NSW is crucial not only for the future of the Sydney northwest regional economy but also for providing people with skills for current and future job markets.

“Semester 2 is about to start, making it the perfect time to explore the range of courses at your local TAFE NSW campus. Whether you prefer online, face-to-face, or teacher-led virtual classrooms, we have study options to suit your needs,” Ms Schorer said.

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CHILDCARE

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CHILDCARE PLACES EXPANDED IN FAR WEST NSW

Focus on local skills and workforces LMOST 200 additional childcare places will be created across far western NSW, as the NSW Government continues work to increase the local workforce and ensure children across the state have access to high-quality education and care.

Over the next 18 months, 44 additional childcare places will be created in Broken Hill, 40 in Bourke and 102 in Cobar – a total of 186 additional places Broken Hill, Bourke and Cobar have some of the highest gaps in childcare services statewide. Not only does this impact local children but creates a barrier to parents returning to work and prevents skilled workers with young families moving to these areas.

Delivered through the Minns Government Regional Development Trust Fund’s Western NSW Workforce Activation Package, $5.6 million will be made available to successful service providers immediately.

A further $4.4M will be made available to further expand childcare places across western New South Wales early next year.

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Busy Kids Childcare – Broken Hill Over $1.4M be invested in Busy Kids Broken Hill to double the childcare’s existing capacity from 44 to 88 places for children aged 0 to 6 years old, creating nine additional full-time jobs.

This investment will support the construction of a new adaptable day-

care classroom as well as other necessary centre upgrades to increase its capacity and service delivery.

Further, this money will allow for the employment of additional staff and programs to support their professional development, wellbeing and retention.

Cobar Shire Council 102 additional childcare places, and 18 additional jobs will be created in Cobar, with over $1.3M being provided to Cobar Shire Council to support locally run childcare services.

This funding will support relocating Cobar Out of School Hours care from a shared hall to a dedicated facility at the Kubby House Childcare Centre.

Currently, the service operates in a rented church hall, causing frequent interruptions to the service to accommodate other users.

Cobar Shire Council will also undertake work to expand the number of Family Day Care Operations. Family Day Cares are trained and registered educators who provide childcare from their homes. The Council will use this Government funding to cover the costs associated with these operations including, CPR and First Aid training, working with children checks, public liability insurance and professional development sessions.

A comprehensive attraction and retention package will also be developed, which will include relocation

assistance, rental assistance and formal training plans.

Bourke and District Children’s Services $1.85M will be utilised by Bourke & District Children’s Services to created 20 additional childcare places for children aged 0-3, and 4 full time jobs.

This work will include the construction of a new childcare room to accommodate the children, with three child accessible bathrooms and two craft sinks.

To support staff recruitment and retention, relocation support will be offered to attract new staff and retention bonuses will be available to encourage long term service.

Bourke & District Children’s Services – Out of Hours Care More than $900,000 is being invested to support Bourke & District Children’s Services establish a 20-place Out of School Hours Care program, operational five days a week for 40 weeks of the year.

Out of hours care offers care to school aged children before and after school.

Infrastructure improvements will be made to the services facility to ensure it is fit for purpose. This includes replacing the roof and installing a new kitchen for child food preparation.

A professional early childhood consultant will also be retained to ensure this new service is established to operate

at the highest possible standard.

Comprehensive training and development programs will be provided to upskill staff, as well as relocation expenses offered to attract staff and retention bonuses for long term care providers.

Premier Chris Minns said: “This program is a win-win, and one of the best things a government can invest in.

“Not only does it increase access for children in our state to quality care and education, it also removes one of the barriers facing parents who may want to re-enter the workforce or enter it for the first time.

“I’ve heard countless stories of essential and skilled workers with young families who had considered making a move to one of our fantastic regional communities but were concerned about being able to access childcare. My genuine hope is that news of these extra places helps them to take that leap.”

Prue Car, Deputy Premier, Minister for Education and Early Learning said: “The Government is committed to ensuring children across NSW can kick-start their education in high-quality facilities – no matter their postcode.

“Improving equity in access to early education and care in the regions is vital for young families, and ensures our youngest learners are given every opportunity to thrive.

“The Minns Labor Government is delivering a plan to build a stronger, more accessible education system, for families across the state.”

TRAVEL

www.parentopia.au

| 11

MEMPHIS IS IDEAL FOR

Young minds to explore Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash.

 EMMA WILSON | GROUP TRAVEL EDITOR

Shelby Farms Park Located just 20 minutes from Downtown Memphis is this 4,500-acre playground, which is one of the largest urban parks in the country, five times the size of New York City’s Central Park.

There’s an outdoor ropes course with ziplines, a Woodland Discovery Playground, horse-riding, and a Water Play Sprayground for those hot summer days and much more.

HE vibrant city of Memphis is well-known for its iconic music, rich history, and world-famous food scene, making it the perfect destination for a family holiday.

With a wide range of museums, parks and plenty of outdoor and indoor activities, Memphis offers a variety of attractions for young minds to explore and discover.

T

Peabody Ducks Children’s Museum of Memphis

For a unique hotel stay in Memphis for families, The Peabody Hotel, with its daily duck parade will give the kids something fun to watch each day. The hotel is considered to be Memphis’ grandest and most legendary hotel, and it offers a unique family package in which your family becomes honorary Peabody Duckmasters for the day.

A great spot for families seeking fun, educational, and interactive experiences, this museum intends to inspire children to explore, imagine and create.

The Fire Museum of Memphis Experience the excitement of firefighting at America’s premier interactive fire museum and, quite literally, Memphis’ hottest attraction. Children of all ages can dress up in fire coats and helmets, play on authentic fire equipment, put out a simulated fire, ride on an aerial platform and slide down a brass fire pole.

National Civil Rights Museum (ages 12+) Bring the kids to explore a significant chapter of the U.S.

The Pyramid at the historic Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. spent his final moments.

While a heavy subject to teach kids, it has been noted as one of America’s most important historical events and can be used as a dialogue-opener with the kids about oppressive racism in the US during that time.

A family guide can be found on the NCRM website here.

Graceland Introduce your kids to the history of Rock ‘n’ Roll at the late Elvis Presley’s legendary home. This cultural icon offers kids (and parents!) the opportunity to delve into the life and legacy of Elvis, from his legendary music and lasting impact on pop culture.

Sun Studios (ages 5+)

Nicknamed The Birthplace of Rock’n’roll, the well-known recording studio offers families a thrilling journey into the history of rock' n' roll and soul music. While primarily geared towards older children and adults (ages 5+), kids can still immerse themselves in the recording process, explore vintage instruments, and discover the stories of legendary artists like

The Cypress Lodge: Inside the big Pyramid located on the Mississippi River, you’ll find a massive outdoor-inspired luxury hotel. You can “camp out” in rustic cabin-style rooms overlooking a swamp with live alligators and a variety of fish and Cypress trees, giving a true wilderness vibe.

Explore more of Memphis here: www. memphistravel.com

Is FIJI the gest overseas holiday for kids?

ITH the end of the year fast approaching, almost half (49%) of Australian and New Zealand employees admit to experiencing feelings of burnout or exhaustion and with the festive season also known to cause stress for a lot of people, embracing Fiji Time might just be the way to help navigate this stressful time of year.

In a destination that boasts warm, sunny days throughout December and January, and as the home of some of the happiest people in the world, Fiji is the perfect escape for a stress-free and relaxed festive season. Just under a four-hour flight from Australia’s East Coast, there are myriad ways to end your year on the right note.

beginning with a Little Mermaid-themed show performed by the Australian Gotcha Back Productions, followed by early fireworks and a disco in the resort’s dedicated Kids Village. While they are kept entertained, adults can indulge in a buffet spread, live band, dancing and fireworks at a Grecian-themed takeover of the Rocks Bar.

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Malolo Island Resort

Royal Davui Island Resort After a recent multi-million-dollar transformation, the resort intertwines luxury and Fijian tradition. With just 16 appointed vales nestled among the exclusive, adults-only island, privacy and serenity come hand in hand at Royal Davui.

Christmas: Guests will enjoy a long Christmas lunch on the 25th of December including a festive welcome cocktail, a Pure Fiji gift and an intimate carol performance by the staff. New Years Eve: The resort will be hosting an all-white theme gala dinner looking out onto Beqa Lagoon’s scenery and featuring a live band and fireworks to ring in the new year.

VOMO Island Resort Situated in the picturesque Mamanuca Island group, this private resort has become an oasis for guests particularly families searching for a retreat off the beaten path.

Christmas: The resort will be offering a line-up of activities including a church service in the morning, Santa’s arrival (by water), a decadent Christmas Day feast including a Yasawa lobster; local delicacies, followed by gift giving and a performance of carols and Fijian hymns by the VOMO choir. News Eve: The kids remain a huge part of the festivities

A rustic and intimate resort designed in a South Pacific beach cottage style, Malolo is perfect for both families and couples. Christmas: The program includes Santa’s arrival and parade with gifts, a performance by the Malolo Band, a treasure hunt with a 3-night stay prize, festive cocktails, and a Christmas buffet dinner in the kids club or Terrace restaurant, before finishing with carols by the Malolo Resort Choir.

New Year’s Eve: A buffet dinner and foam party at the kids pool lawn will keep them occupied for most of the night while adults will be treated to pre-dinner drinks hosted by the resort, several performances (including a fire dance) by the Ahura Dance Group, a buffet dinner, best-dressed awards and a fireworks display to finish.

For more information on Fiji visit: https://www.fiji.travel * According to a recent survey conducted by Sonder.