AS the school year kicks into full swing for 2025, there is a major problem lurking in the classroom and playground. It isn’t due to a health pandemic or lack of funding, but rather the fact the number of male teachers at the primary school level in Western Sydney has plummeted to critically low levels, with some primary schools not having any men among their teaching ranks. More inside.
JANAKAN SEEMAMPILLAI
AS the school year kicks into full swing for 2025, there is a major problem lurking in the classroom and playground.
It isn’t due to a health pandemic or lack of funding, but rather the fact the number of male teachers at the primary school level has plummeted to critically low levels, with some primary schools not having any men among their teaching ranks.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), less than 18 per cent of teachers in primary schools across the country are male. In NSW, this figure falls to 14 per cent, and schools across Western Sydney mirror this concerning number. There has been a 50 per cent drop from the 1980s, when roughly one in three teachers were male.
Natalie Farrugia, who teaches at Widemere Primary School in Greystanes, Western Sydney, admits something needs to be done to fix this alarming trend.
“There is not one male teacher at the school I work at and it’s appalling,” said Farrugia, who is 23 and embarking on what she hopes is a long teaching career.
“It is such a wonderful and rewarding career, but it is a career that can be for anyone and everyone. It’s time to break the stereotype of teaching being a ‘female job.’
“Teaching needs to be promoted as a valued career for men. We need to see more men when advertising the education profession, including making male teachers more visible, especially for the lower age groups.”
This problem isn’t confined to Australia, with a number of western countries seeing similarly low numbers for male teachers. In the USA only 23% of primary school teachers are male, while in the UK it is only 15%.
Interestingly, at the secondary
“It is such a wonderful and rewarding career, but it is a career that can be for anyone and everyone. It’s time to break the stereotype of teaching being a female job.”
school level in Australia, nearly 39% of the teaching population are male, while in NSW it is nudging 41%.
There are various reasons given for males not pursuing teaching careers at the primary school level, from the thought that women are more nurturing with children, to the widely held view that men are concerned about working with younger age groups due to potential allegations that could be made against them.
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Farrugia believes the key to fixing this is to show men that working with young children has far more reward than risk.
“I think children would love to have more male figures and role models in their lives. Kids are so appreciative of those who give their time and attention to them,” Farrugia said.
Farrugia, who completed her teaching degree at Macquarie University, isn’t convinced the numbers will
increase any time soon.
“When I was studying only a few years ago, in a class of more than 30 students, we honestly had on average one male per class. As we got closer to the end, they were dropping like flies,” she said.
Farrrugia’s comments are sadly accurate, with only 28% of students enrolled in initial teacher education programs across the country identifying as male, but this figure incorporates secondary education as well as special education, for primary school it is thought to be much lower.
The pay rates for teachers makes for interesting reading. Primary school teachers in NSW expected to earn between $75,000 to $122,000, with the average sitting at just below $96,000 in 2024, which lines up with the average salary for employees across Australia for all industries based on ABS data.
PROPER nutrition is the cornerstone of a child’s physical and mental development. From boosting energy levels to supporting brain growth, what children eat profoundly impacts their health today and their potential for tomorrow. Unfortunately, with the rise of fast food, sugary snacks, and busy lifestyles, ensuring children receive a balanced diet has become a growing challenge. Understanding the importance of nutrition and making informed choices can help parents and caregivers foster a foundation of lifelong health.
Children experience rapid physical growth, particularly in their early years. During this critical period, nutrients such as proteins, calcium, and vitamins D and C play a vital role. Protein supports muscle and tissue development, while calcium and vitamin D are crucial for building strong bones and teeth. A deficiency in these nutrients can lead to stunted growth, weaker bones, and a higher risk of developmental delays. Iron is another essential nutrient, as it helps produce hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood. Iron deficiency in children can cause fatigue, weakness, and difficulty concentrating. Including foods such as lean meats,
beans, spinach, and fortified cereals can help combat this issue.
Good nutrition is equally important for cognitive development. The brain undergoes significant growth and changes in childhood, and it requires a consistent supply of energy and nutrients. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in foods like fish, walnuts, and flaxseeds, are essential for brain health. These healthy fats aid in memory, focus, and overall cognitive function.
Additionally, zinc, iodine, and vitamins A and B-complex play key roles in enhancing learning abilities, problem-solving skills, and memory retention. For example, a breakfast rich in whole grains, fruits, and protein can improve a child’s focus and performance at school.
A well-balanced diet helps strengthen a child’s immune system, enabling them to fight off infections and illnesses more effectively. Nutrients like vitamin C (found in citrus fruits, strawberries, and bell peppers) and zinc (present in nuts, seeds, and beans) enhance the body’s ability to resist diseases.
Probiotic-rich foods, such as yogurt and fermented products, also support gut
health, which is closely linked to immunity. A healthy digestive system ensures better absorption of nutrients and a stronger defense against harmful bacteria.
Childhood obesity is a growing concern worldwide, with many children consuming calorie-dense, nutrient-poor foods. Over time, poor eating habits can lead to obesity, which increases the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension.
Encouraging balanced meals that
include whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, and plenty of fruits and vegetables can help children maintain a healthy weight. Teaching portion control and limiting processed foods and sugary drinks are also essential steps in promoting long-term health.
Establishing healthy eating habits early on is crucial, as children are more likely to carry these habits into adulthood. Parents play a pivotal role in modeling positive behaviors. Preparing meals together, involving children in grocery shopping, and teaching them about the nutritional value of food can foster a lifelong appreciation for healthy choices.
Creating a positive eating environment is equally important. Avoid forcing children to eat foods they dislike; instead, introduce new foods gradually and in fun, appealing ways. Presenting meals with a variety of colors and textures can make healthy eating more exciting.
Nutrition is the foundation of a child’s health, growth, and development. By providing a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, parents and caregivers can help children reach their full potential, both physically and mentally. Prioritizing nutrition today ensures a brighter, healthier future for the next generation.
EVERY stage of a child’s life is filled with opportunities for growth and development. From the moment they are born, children embark on a lifelong journey of learning, exploring the world, acquiring new skills, and developing their physical, emotional, and cognitive abilities. Understanding the key learning steps in a child’s life can help parents and caregivers provide the guidance and support needed to nurture their potential.
Infancy is a period of rapid development. During these early years, the brain grows at an incredible pace, forming neural connections that lay the groundwork for future learning.
1. Sensory Exploration: Babies learn through their senses. They touch, taste, see, hear, and smell everything around them, building an understanding of the world. Parents can encourage sensory learning by introducing a variety of textures, sounds, and visual stimuli.
2. Attachment and Emotional Learning: Forming secure attachments with caregivers is a crucial step during infancy. Positive interactions, such as cuddling, smiling, and responding to a baby’s needs, foster emotional security and trust. This emotional bond is the foundation for healthy social and emotional development.
3. Language Development: Though babies cannot speak, they begin to develop language skills by listening to voices and observing facial expressions. Talking, singing, and reading to infants helps build their vocabulary and communication skills.
The toddler years are marked by curiosity and the desire for independence. Children at this stage are eager to
explore their surroundings and assert themselves.
1. Motor Skills Development: Toddlers refine their gross and fine motor skills. Activities like stacking blocks, drawing, and running help them gain control over their bodies. Encouraging physical play is essential for their growth.
2. Problem-Solving and Creativity: Toddlers begin to solve simple problems, such as figuring out how to open a jar or complete a puzzle. This stage is ideal for introducing toys and games that challenge their critical thinking and spark creativity.
3. Social Skills: Learning to interact with peers is a key milestone. Sharing, taking turns, and understanding emotions are important social skills toddlers develop. Role-playing games and group activities help reinforce these skills.
4. Language Explosion: During this stage, children experience rapid language growth. They start forming sentences, asking questions, and expressing their thoughts. Engaging in conversations, reading books, and playing word games can further enhance their language skills.
In early childhood, children begin formal education and develop essential academic and social skills.
1. Cognitive Development: Preschool and early school years are when children develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. They learn to count, recognize shapes and colors, and understand basic concepts like time and space.
2. Reading and Writing: Learning to read and write is a major milestone during this stage. Encouraging a love for books, practicing writing letters and words, and fostering a print-rich environment can boost literacy skills.
3. Social and Emotional Growth: As children spend more time with peers, they learn teamwork, em-
pathy, and conflict resolution. Structured activities like group projects and sports teach collaboration and leadership.
4. Developing Routine and Responsibility: Early childhood is the time to introduce routines and responsibilities. Simple tasks like packing their school bag or tidying up toys teach children organization and accountability.
Middle childhood is a period of skill development and self-discovery. Children become more independent and start identifying their strengths and interests.
1. Academic Growth: During this stage, children develop a deeper understanding of subjects like math, science, and language arts. Critical thinking and problem-solving skills continue to grow. Supporting their learning through homework help and educational activities is crucial.
2. Hobbies and Interests: Children often explore hobbies such as music, sports, or art. Encouraging these interests helps build confidence and allows them to develop talents.
3. Social Relationships: Friendships become more meaningful in middle childhood. Children learn to navigate complex social dynamics, build strong relationships, and resolve conflicts. Teaching empathy and communication skills is key.
4. Resilience and Coping Skills: As children face challenges, they learn to manage emotions and handle setbacks. Encouraging perseverance and a growth mindset helps them build resilience.
Adolescence is a transformative period marked by significant physical, emotional, and cognitive changes.
Teenagers begin to form their identity and prepare for adulthood.
1. Critical Thinking and Decision-Making: Adolescents develop higher-order thinking skills, allowing them to analyze, reason, and make informed decisions. Encouraging discussions and debates helps refine these skills.
2. Emotional Maturity: Teens experience a range of emotions and may struggle with self-esteem and identity. Providing a supportive environment where they feel heard and understood is vital for their emotional well-being.
3. Skill Development and Career Exploration: Adolescents begin to explore career options and develop skills for the future. Encouraging internships, part-time jobs, and extracurricular activities can help them gain experience and discover their passions.
4. Building Independence: Preparing for independence is a key focus during adolescence. Teaching life skills like budgeting, cooking, and time management equips teens for the challenges of adulthood.
At every stage of a child’s learning journey, parents and caregivers play a crucial role. Providing a safe, supportive, and stimulating environment helps children thrive. Encouraging curiosity, celebrating achievements, and guiding them through challenges fosters confidence and a love for learning.
Additionally, it’s important to recognize that each child develops at their own pace. Being patient and understanding while offering consistent support ensures that every child feels valued and empowered.
The key learning steps in a child’s life are the building blocks for their future success. By understanding the developmental milestones and providing age-appropriate guidance, parents and caregivers can nurture children’s physical, cognitive, and emotional growth. Investing time and effort in these early years creates a strong foundation for lifelong learning, resilience, and well-being.
BULLYING can have a profound impact on a child’s emotional well-being, self-esteem, and academic performance.
Unfortunately, many children do not openly discuss being bullied, either out of fear, shame, or a sense of helplessness. As a parent or caregiver, it is crucial to be aware of the signs of bullying and know how to approach the situation with sensitivity and support. Detecting bullying early can prevent lasting harseeing the signsm and empower your child to overcome the challenges they face.
Children may not always articulate their struggles, but their behavior often tells a story. The signs of bullying can manifest in various ways—physically, emotionally, socially, or academically. Here’s what to look for:
1. Emotional and Behavioral Changes
• Mood Swings: A child who is being bullied may exhibit sudden or unexplained mood swings. They might appear unusually sad, anxious, withdrawn, or irritable.
• Low Self-Esteem: Bullying often causes children to feel inadequate or unworthy. They may express negative self-talk, such as saying they are "not good enough" or "stupid."
• Avoidance Behavior: If your child is suddenly reluctant to go to school, participate in extracurricular activities, or engage in social events, it may be a sign of bullying.
• Sleep Disturbances: Nightmares, trouble falling asleep, or bedwetting can sometimes indicate underlying stress or fear caused by bullying.
• Unexplained Injuries: Cuts, bruises, or scratches that your child cannot explain might be a result of physical bullying.
• Damaged Belongings: Torn clothing, missing items, or broken school supplies could signal bullying, especially if your child seems hesitant to explain what happened.
• Frequent Illnesses: Stress from bullying can lead to psychosomatic symptoms like headaches, stomachaches, or fatigue. Your child may complain of feeling unwell as a way to avoid school.
3. Academic or Social Changes
• Decline in Academic Performance: Bullying can distract children from their studies, leading to lower grades, a lack of focus, or a reluctance to participate in school activities.
• Social Withdrawal: If your child begins to isolate themselves, avoids interacting with friends, or shows a sudden lack of interest in activities they once enjoyed, it may indicate that they are being excluded or targeted.
• Fear of Technology: In cases of cyberbullying, children might avoid using their phone, computer, or social media. They may also seem distressed after receiving messages or spending time online.
If you suspect your child is being bullied, it’s important to handle the situation delicately. Here are steps to take:
1. Create a Safe Space for Communication
Encourage your child to talk by creating a supportive and non-judgmental environment. Instead of directly asking, "Are you being bullied?" try open-ended questions like:
• "How is everything going at school?"
• "Have you had any problems with classmates or friends?"
2. Listen Without Judging
When your child opens up, listen attentively without interrupting or blaming. Reassure them that it’s not their fault and that you’re there to help.
3. Gather Information
Find out what’s happening, where, and who is involved. Keep a record of incidents if they are recurring. This information will be useful when addressing the issue with school staff or other authorities.
4. Involve the School
Contact your child’s teacher, school counselor, or principal to discuss the situation. Schools often have anti-bullying policies and can take measures to address the issue and ensure your child’s safety.
5. Teach Coping Skills
Help your child build resilience by teaching them strategies to handle bullying, such as assertiveness, avoiding the bully when possible, or seeking help from a trusted adult.
6. Monitor Their Online Activity
If cyberbullying is a concern, monitor your child’s online interactions and educate them about safe internet practices. Block or report bullies on social media platforms if necessary.
To prevent future incidents, encourage your child to build healthy friendships and participate in activities that boost their confidence and self-esteem. Being part of a supportive community can provide them with the strength to handle challenges and seek help when needed.
Detecting bullying in your child requires vigilance, empathy, and a proactive approach. By recognizing the signs, fostering open communication, and taking appropriate action, you can help your child navigate this difficult experience and emerge stronger. Remember, your support and understanding can make all the difference in helping them feel safe and valued.
THE
first five years of a child’s life are foundational, shaping their emotional, cognitive, and social development. While mothers often receive significant focus during this time, the role of a father is equally crucial. Fathers bring unique qualities to parenting that significantly contribute to a child's growth and well-being, creating a balanced and nurturing environment.
From birth, a father’s presence provides a sense of security and stability for a child. By actively participating in caregiving—such as feeding, diaper changes, and bedtime routines—fathers build a deep emotional connection with their child. This bonding fosters a sense of trust and safety, which forms the foundation for a child’s emotional development.
Children who feel secure in their father’s love and attention often display greater confidence, resilience, and independence. Even simple acts, like holding, playing, or reading to a child, communicate love and care, reinforcing the child’s sense of belonging and worth.
Fathers often engage with children in unique ways that stimulate cognitive and language skills. Research shows that fathers are more likely to encourage exploratory play, introduce new vocabulary, and ask thought-provoking questions during interactions. This dynamic style of engagement sparks curiosity and critical thinking in young children.
For instance, while a mother may focus on structured activities, fathers often engage in more spontaneous and
playful interactions, such as tossing a ball or building imaginative stories during playtime. These activities help children develop problem-solving skills, creativity, and adaptability—key cognitive milestones in the early years. Additionally, fathers play a vital role in language development. Conversations during shared activities, such as fixing things around the house or playing outdoors, expose children to diverse vocabulary and communication styles, enhancing their linguistic abilities.
Young children often observe and imitate their parents' behavior. A father who demonstrates kindness, patience, and respect sets a positive example for their child to follow. Fathers who actively share responsibilities, communicate effectively, and show affection within the family teach children essential social and emotional skills. Moreover, fathers who express emotions openly and resolve conflicts constructively model healthy ways of dealing with challenges. These lessons
are particularly important for boys, who often look to their fathers as role models for expressing masculinity in positive and non-toxic ways.
Fathers often engage in more physical, active play than mothers, which helps children develop motor skills and body awareness. Whether it’s playing catch, wrestling gently, or chasing each other around the yard, this type of interaction helps children build strength, coordination, and confidence in their physical abilities.
Additionally, fathers introduce their children to social experiences outside the home, such as trips to the park or community events. These outings help children learn how to interact with others, manage new environments, and develop social skills that are crucial as they grow older.
Fathers bring a different parenting style that complements a mother’s approach. For example, fathers may encourage risk-taking and problem-solving, while mothers often focus on nurturing and protection. This balance allows children to experience both security and independence, fostering well-rounded development.
The role of a father in a child’s life during the first five years is irreplaceable. Fathers contribute to their child’s emotional security, cognitive growth, physical development, and social skills. By being present, engaged, and supportive, fathers lay the foundation for their child’s success in the years to come. Ultimately, a loving father creates an environment where a child feels valued, confident, and ready to explore the world.
CHILDREN are like sponges, absorbing the world around them from a very young age. One of the most fascinating aspects of early development is how children begin to model the behavior of older people, especially parents, caregivers, siblings, and peers.
This modeling process lays the foundation for their social, emotional, and cognitive growth, shaping who they become as individuals.
Children begin modeling behavior earlier than most people realize. Even during infancy, babies observe the actions, facial expressions, and tone of voice of those around them. By as early as 6 months, infants begin to mimic simple behaviors, such as smiling when someone smiles at them or clapping their hands when encouraged.
By the time children reach 12 to 18 months, their ability to imitate becomes more sophisticated. They can replicate actions they see in adults, such as pretending to talk on a phone, stirring a pot, or sweeping the floor. This stage marks the beginning of symbolic play, where children use their imagination to mimic adult behaviors in creative ways.
Between the ages of 2 and 5, children’s capacity for behavioral modeling becomes even more pronounced. They are keen observers of social interactions and are capable of imitating not only physical actions but also emotional reactions, speech patterns, and problem-solving strategies. At this age, children are particularly impressionable, as they are actively learning how to navigate the world through observation and imitation.
Children model behavior through a process called observational learning, which involves four key stages: attention, retention, reproduction, and motivation.
1. Attention: For a child to model a behavior, they must first notice it. This is why children often mimic the actions of people they see frequently, such as parents, teachers, or older siblings. High-energy or emotionally charged behaviors are particularly likely to grab their attention.
2. Retention: Once a child observes a behavior, they store it in their memory. Children have an incredible ability to recall actions and replicate them later, even if some time has passed since they first observed the behavior.
3. Reproduction: After observing and remembering a behavior, children attempt to replicate it. For instance, a child might use a toy hammer to mimic a parent fixing something or repeat a phrase they’ve heard in conversation.
4. Motivation: Children are more likely to model behavior when
they see it rewarded or when it aligns with their goals. Positive reinforcement, such as praise or encouragement, increases the likelihood that a child will repeat a behavior.
Children model a wide range of behaviors, including:
• Daily Activities: Tasks such as cooking, cleaning, or getting dressed are often imitated during play. Pretend play, such as "playing house" or "being a teacher," reflects their observations of adult routines.
• Emotional Responses: Children closely watch how adults react to stress, joy, anger, or disappointment. If parents handle challenges calmly, children are more likely to develop similar coping mechanisms.
• Language and Communication: Speech patterns, vocabulary, and tone are quickly adopted. A child might mimic a parent’s expressions or even
pick up their accent.
• Social Interactions: Watching how adults interact with others teaches children about kindness, respect, and empathy—or, conversely, negative behaviors like impatience or aggression.
Modeling behavior is a vital part of how children learn to understand and engage with the world. Through imitation, children practice new skills, develop social norms, and learn what is expected of them in different situations.
This process also highlights the responsibility of older people, especially parents and caregivers, to act as positive role models. Children are highly perceptive and often imitate behaviors without distinguishing between good and bad actions. For example, a child who sees their parent handling frustration with patience is more likely to emulate that approach, whereas a child
exposed to frequent yelling may adopt similar behaviors.
To foster healthy and constructive behavior in children, older people can take these steps:
1. Be Mindful of Actions and Words: Children notice everything, even when adults think they aren’t paying attention. Displaying kindness, patience, and respect sets a strong example.
2. Provide Positive Reinforcement: When children replicate positive behaviors, such as sharing or using polite language, praise and encouragement can reinforce those actions.
3. Model Healthy Habits: Children who see their parents engaging in healthy eating, regular exercise, or good hygiene are more likely to adopt these habits themselves.
4. Teach Emotional Regulation: Demonstrating how to handle emotions constructively—such as taking deep breaths when upset or talking about feelings—helps children develop emotional intelligence.
5. Encourage Observation in Varied Settings: Exposing children to diverse environments, such as schools, community events, or sports activities, broadens their opportunities to observe and model positive behaviors.
Children begin modeling the behavior of older people as early as infancy and continue to refine this skill throughout childhood. Observational learning is a powerful tool that helps them acquire the social, emotional, and practical skills they need to thrive. By being conscious of their actions and creating a positive, nurturing environment, adults can ensure that children are modeling behaviors that contribute to their growth, confidence, and success.
Workshops require registration at www.wexpo.com.au
Event opens to the public at 8am, concludes 6pm.
Venue
WEXPO 2025 will be hosted at Hall 5A at Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park, Australia. For Exhibitors
Exhibitor Bump In: Tuesday 21st Oct – 3-5pm.
Exhibitor Bumpout: Thursday 23rd – 9am – 3pm. Workshops
Commencing at 10am and running every hour with a 30-minute break in between. Details announced soon.
WEXPO
Each set up includes: Plain white walling. Business name on 1 x walling. The cupboard.
1 x LED arm light. 1 x 4amp power point.
