Parentopia June 2024

ABOUT THE STATE OF OUR SECTOR 2024

• A time to reflect.

• A time to recognise.

• A time to rejoice!

On Saturday, 22 June 2024, the NSW early childhood education and care sector will gather with the NSW Deputy Premier and NSW Minister for Education & Early Learning (the Hon Prue Car MP) to reflect, recognise and rejoice in the inspiring contributions made, as well as the amazing individuals and teams who made them and contributed to the state of our early childhood education and care sector. You can secure your tickets using the official State of our Sector Tickets Booking Form and send them to tickets@precedent.net by 29 May 2024. You can also contact Precedent Productions on (02) 8363 3333 to purchase your tickets over the telephone or for any further inquiries. And yes, it is an evening gown and black-tie event.

Visit: www.stateofoursector.com

Dear Family

Welcome to the June edition of Parentopia. We’ve got another edition packed with great information and articles.

This edition features coverage of an issue of very parent’s mind – screentime. Research has shown that spending more than 3 hours of combined digital screentime at school and home can be a recipe for long term vision and learning difficulties. See the expert’s tips to reduce eye strain. Our consultant publisher Chiang Lim has researched some money saving tips and tricks for young families. You’ll be surprised at what’s available for things such as household goods. On the support front, the NSW Government has announced a new initiative to enhance pregnancy care for women and their babies. The Pregnancy Connect initiative will focus on improving early access to specialist maternity care, particularly for women in regional and rural NSW. Enjoy this edition and if you have any feedback don’t hesitate to contact us: connect@parentopia.au

Alison Adams Associate Editor

Ready for daycare? So where do we start?

When and if to refer your child to therapy

PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Michael Walls

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

Rebecca Swaleh

CONSULTANT PUBLISHER

ChIANG lIM

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Alison Adams

SUBSCRIPTION MANAGEMENT

Rose Love

SALES EXECUTIVES

Jule Jackson

julie@accessnews.com.au

Linda Miller

linda@accessnews.com.au

MAGAZINE DESIGN TEAM

Design2Pro

Navigating Toddler Travel

TRAVELLING WITH TODDLERS CAN BE A THRILLING YET DAUNTING EXPERIENCE. FROM PACKING ESSENTIALS TO MANAGING MELTDOWNS, EVERY PARENT FACES UNIQUE CHALLENGES WHEN EMBARKING ON JOURNEYS WITH THEIR LITTLE ONES. FEAR NOT! WITH CAREFUL PLANNING AND A DASH OF PATIENCE, YOU CAN TURN YOUR FAMILY ADVENTURES INTO UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCES. HERE'S YOUR COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE TO TRAVELING WITH TODDLERS:

A PARENT'S GUIDE TO ADVENTURE

1. Preparing for the Journey:

Before you embark on your adventure, take time to prepare both mentally and practically. Create a checklist of essentials, including diapers, wipes, snacks, and a change of clothes. Pack favorite toys, books, and comfort items to soothe your toddler during moments of stress. Check the weather forecast and plan your clothing accordingly. Lastly, ensure your travel documents are in order, including passports, visas, and any necessary medical records.

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3. Plan Around Their Schedule:

T

oddlers thrive on routine, so try to maintain a sense of familiarity during your travels. Schedule flights or long drives during your toddler's nap times to minimize disruptions to their sleep schedule. Allow for plenty of breaks and opportunities for play to prevent restlessness and tantrums. Be flexible with your itinerary and be prepared to adjust plans as needed to accommodate your toddler's needs.

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2. Choose Toddler-Friendly Accommodations:

When selecting accommodations, prioritize toddler-friendly options that cater to your family's needs. Look for hotels or vacation rentals that offer amenities such as cribs, high chairs, and childproofing supplies. Consider booking accommodations with separate sleeping areas to ensure everyone gets a good night's rest. Research nearby attractions and amenities, such as parks or playgrounds, to keep your little one entertained during downtime.

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4. Pack Wisely:

P acking efficiently is key when traveling with toddlers. Opt for lightweight, easily transportable gear such as collapsible strollers and compact travel cribs. Pack a separate bag filled with essentials such as diapers, wipes, and snacks, and keep it easily accessible during your journey. Consider bringing a baby carrier or sling for handsfree carrying in crowded areas or on hikes. Don't forget to pack entertainment options such as toys, books, and electronic devices to keep your toddler engaged during travel.

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5. Stay Healthy and Safe:

Prioritise your toddler's health and safety throughout your journey. Pack a first-aid kit with essential medications, bandages, and any necessary medical supplies. Research local healthcare facilities and emergency services at your destination in case of unexpected medical needs. Practice proper hygiene, including frequent handwashing and sanitizing surfaces your toddler may come into contact with. Ensure your toddler is up to date on vaccinations and take necessary precautions to prevent illness and injury.

TRY SOME THE MANY POPULAR DAY TRIP DESTINATIONS IN SYDNEY

Sydney offers a plethora of exciting destinations perfect for toddlers and their families. From vibrant parks to interactive museums, here are some of the best travel spots tailored to accommodate the youngest adventurers.

1. TARONGA ZOO: Located on the shores of Sydney Harbour, Taronga Zoo provides an unforgettable experience for toddlers to get up close and personal with a diverse range of animals. The zoo offers childfriendly exhibits, keeper talks, and even a dedicated Kids' Trail, making it both entertaining and educational.

2. DARLING HARBOUR: This bustling precinct boasts a variety of family-friendly attractions, including the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium and the WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo. Toddlers will love exploring the underwater world and encountering native Australian wildlife.

3. SYDNEY OLYMPIC PARK: With expansive green spaces and playgrounds, Sydney Olympic Park is a haven for active toddlers. Families can enjoy picnics, bike rides, and water play areas, providing endless opportunities for outdoor fun.

4. THE AUSTRALIAN MUSEUM Spark your toddler's curiosity with a visit to the Australian Museum, where they can marvel at dinosaur skeletons, interactive exhibits, and hands-on learning experiences designed specifically for young children.

5. BONDI BEACH: While known for its surf culture, Bondi Beach also offers gentle waves and a fenced-off children's pool, making it an ideal destination for families with toddlers to enjoy a day by the sea.

6. Embrace Spontaneity and Have Fun:

hile careful planning is essential, don't forget to embrace the spontaneity of travel and enjoy the journey with your toddler. Take time to explore new destinations, try new foods, and make memories together as a family. Be patient and flexible when faced with challenges, and remember that unexpected moments often

make the best stories. Cherish the precious time spent with your little one and savor every moment of your adventure together.

Traveling with toddlers may have its challenges, but with careful planning and a positive attitude, it can also be a rewarding and enriching experience for the entire family. By prioritizing your toddler's needs, staying organized, and embracing the joy of discovery, you can create lasting memories that you'll cherish for years to come. So, pack your bags, embark on your journey, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure with your tiny explorer!

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Kindergarten

First year at the BIG school

MORE THAN 63,000 CHILDREN IN NSW STARTED KINDERGARTEN THIS YEAR AND MOST FAMILIES ARE EXPECTEDLY ANXIOUS SO HERE ARE SOME EXPERT TIPS TO HELP MAKE THEIR FIRST TIME AT THE ‘BIG SCHOOL’ A MEMORABLE ONE.

“Starting school is a rite of passage and a key transition point in education,” NSW education secretary Murat Dizdar said.

“Every student, parent and teacher will remember what their first day of school was like and it’s our goal to create these same memorable experiences for today’s students.

“It’s really important that our youngest students feel supported by their school, their teachers and families, so they have a positive start to school and are ready and eager to learn.”

Denistone East Public School kindergarten teacher Yue Zhu and Nicholson St Public School assistant principal Lucy Norrish have gathered some of the most useful tips for parents.

• Show them how to dress independently. Get your child to practise putting on and taking off school shoes, socks, jumpers and raincoats by themselves on school day.

• Have some fun picnics before school starts where your kids can practise opening and closing their lunch boxes and food containers that require the skills of twisting, turning and pulling. Once school starts, provide lots of easy to open snacks and healthy food you know your child will eat.

• Familiarise your child with their school bag. There is no need to buy the biggest bag because it will put a strain on their back. An overloaded bag can also mean kids pull out everything in their bag just to get to their lunchboxes.

• Give your child plenty of opportunities to learn social skills by having cooperative play with other children. Practise sharing and taking turns and discuss how their own behaviour can affect others.

• Good hygiene behaviours are absolutely important. Have discussions on how to use the toilet safely and appropriately and the importance of asking a teacher before they go. Make sure your child knows to always flush the toilet and wash their hands afterwards. Pack a spare pair of undies in the school bag, just in case.

• Fine motor and gross motor skills. Practise using scissors safely and holding them correctly. Practise holding a pencil with control and encourage your child to hold it with the correct grip. Encourage your child to participate in a variety of indoor and outdoor play and activities that foster balance and coordination.

Starting school is a rite of passage and a key transition point in education

• Practise writing their first name. Children entering Kindergarten can practise writing their first name with a beginning capital letter and lowercase letters for the remainder. One of the biggest challenges for Kindergarten teachers is to ‘unteach’ the incorrect habit of capital letters in names.

• Schools encourage parents to read with their children every day for 15 minutes. This helps children practise sitting still and listening. When you finish reading, ask your child questions about the stories, like ‘What happened?’ ‘What was your favourite part?’ Children who enjoy books are usually more eager to learn to read on their own.

• The numbers’ game can be an exciting play by practising simple counting at home and if children are ready for it,

practise counting backwards. Give your child opportunities to practise identifying numbers from one to 10 and count out corresponding amounts of objects.

• Encourage student advocacy. Reassure your child that it’s OK to tell the teacher and other school staff what they need and how they are feeling. Young children can get so excited, or nervous, that they have finally made it to ‘big school’ that they forget to advocate for them.

More information on starting school in 2024 is available for parents and carers, by visiting https://education.nsw.gov.au/content/dam/main-education/en/home/parents-and-carers/startingschool-guides/starting-primary-school/Getting_ready_for_primary_school_2024.pdf

Better than Thomas the Tank Engine in Sydney and it’s live!

DOyour children like Thomas the Tank Engine? Are you encouraging them to learn about science, technology, engineering and mathematics? Do you teach them to appreciate history too?

Well, you can do all of that at the Sydney Live Steam Locomotive Society’s Mini Trains at West Ryde! Just behind Coles West Ryde, on the third Saturday of the month, 3 miniature train tracjks with rides on trains pulled by miniature and real steam locomotives come alive for children and families to enjoy.

The layout even includes bridges, hills and tight corners, and all the trains can carry 3 or 4 and even up to 30 people at a time. There are of course the mandatory switch points along the tracks, lights, signal box, a few stations and a guard tower.

For train lovers, there is a turntable and maintenance area where the Society’s volunteers tinker with their trains too.

Entry is about $4 per adult and $2 per child. Each ride is also $2 per person. Families can have children’s birthday parties there. And everyone must wear enclosed shoes.

Although there is a kiosk, there is plenty of space around for a picnic too.

Entry is via the corner of Betts Street and Anthony Road in West Ryde. And for more information, please visit http://www. parraparents.com.au/things-to-do/west-ryde-mini-trains/

ULTIMATE PLAYGROUND SEARCH TOOL FOR TODAY’S BUSY PARENTS

If you are like so many other parents, Google can only help you go so far. But if you had a team of parents who have curated some of the best playgrounds across Sydney, you would think they are a Godsend, won’t you! And that is exactly what has happened.

The ParraParents have created just such a tool (see http://www.parraparents.com.au/parks-playgrounds/ find-a-playground/). You can search by animal experiences, whether they are fenced or not, are they suitable for toddlers or teenagers, and would there be a café nearby, and what kind of season is best to use them! They even list what kind of play equipment are available and whether it is a dog-off leash area.

Commentaries for each playground are quite up-todate, complete with pictures and useful information.

Alarm bells ring OVER PROLONGED SCREENTIME

SPENDING MORE THAN THREE HOURS COMBINED DIGITAL SCREENTIME AT SCHOOL AND HOME HAS BEEN FOUND TO BE A RECIPE FOR CHILDREN’S LONG-TERM VISION AND LEARNING PROBLEMS.

Latest eyecare research has found Generation Alpha, ages from 5 to 12, are most at risk as both parents and teachers search for prevention techniques to avoid vision damage while using digital screens.

The damaging impacts of prolonged computer use on children’s vision and learning abilities were highlighted by a World Health Organisation findings, citing myopia, or

short sightedness, is on the rise globally among children.

WHO found 52 percent of the world’s child population will be impacted by myopia by 2050 if causes of eye strain from screentime are not detected early.

Australia’s Specsavers has commissioned the latest research and found that 90 percent of primary school teachers have witnessed signs of eye strain in their students.

The YouGov research found one in three children under nine years of age, or 29 percent of children under nine, have never had an eye test before the age of five.

The digital eye strain research conducted by YouGov was held last November with samples from 1,013 parents of children aged two to 12, and 206 primary school teachers.

The teachers said the students are often their rubbing eyes, have watery eyes, and complained of headaches, neck aches, blurry vision, and not wanting to read aloud.

Over half or 56 percent of these teachers say that they witness this at least every week and sometimes more often.

The findings also showed an overwhelming 98 percent of primary school teachers agree poor vision impacts the children’s ability to learn.

These alarming vision problems must not be left untreated because early detection is the key to managing children’s healthy vision, Specsavers said.

Optometrists are calling on parents and teachers, and anyone with children in their care for extended periods, to be aware of safer screen practices, including limiting up-close tasks, taking regular screen breaks and regular eye tests.

With children being diagnosed with vision problems younger than ever before age three, eye health tests should be considered an essential element of the backto-school routine.

The YouGov research found one in three children under nine years of age, or 29 percent of children under nine, have never had an eye test before the age of five.

Optometrist Merna Mikhaiel, of Westfield Specsavers, said: “While myopia is typically successfully managed with prescription lenses, if left undiagnosed, it can impact day-to-day life. Children’s eyes are still developing during their schooling years, and they can’t always tell you if they may not be able to see properly.

If your child complains about headaches, blurred vision, trouble focusing or any other issues with their eyes, I recommend booking an optometrist immediately rather than waiting until their next check-up.”

Ms Mikhaiel’s top tips to reduce digital eye strain:

• Follow the 20-20-20 rule. This means, every 20 minutes remind children to shift their eyes to look at an object at least 20 metres away, for at least 20 seconds. The easiest way to do this is to take small ‘window’ breaks and look out at a faraway object to give tired eyes a break from the screen.

• Take breaks outside and encourage outside play. Research shows us that spending 2 hours outdoors is a protective factor during daylight hours for children developing myopia or short-sightedness.

• Remind children to blink. Blinking regularly keeps the surface of your eyes from drying out.

• Keep a bottle of water close by. Your eyes dry out when you’re dehydrated so making sure children are drinking plenty of water throughout the day is important.

• It is recommended that children of all ages get a routine eye test every two years unless directed otherwise by their optometrist.

Ready for daycare?

So where do we start?

BY CHIANG LIAM

FOR whatever the reasons that you and your partner are considering enrolling your child to early childhood education and care, know that there is never just one reason.

Whether it is for economic reasons, or that your child is ready to take on more education, or that you have one or more children at home that are too young for childcare, you are some of the millions of parents who face the question, “is my child ready for daycare?”

In Australia, there are many choices that are available to you. Fundamentally, they are:

• Long daycare (typically from 7.30 am to 6.30 pm).

• Community preschool (for 4and 5-year-olds, normally usually from 9 am to 3 pm).

• Family daycare (typically from 7.30 am to 6.30 pm).

Only long daycare and family daycare would attract the Federal Government’s Child Care Subsidy that would help reduce fees. Your combined household income has a direct influence over how much government subsidy you will receive (see https://www.humanservices. gov.au/individuals/services/centrelink/ child-care-subsidy/how-much-you-canget/your-income-can-affect-it).

WHICH SERVICE SHOULD I ENROL MY CHILD AT?

Finding an early childhood education and care service provider will be your next challenge. This can be done via the Federal Government’s Child Care Finder (see https://www.childcarefinder.gov.au/) or Parentopia (see https://www. parentopia.com.au). Such sites will help inform you of where services are and whether they may have availability. Sometimes, depending on their respective published profiles, they may show their fees too.

Having said that, as much as the government wants you to think they are all providing the same kind of educational curriculum and care (using a government rating system since 2012), the actual reality is that they do not and you will have to visit each of them to size each of them up.

WHICH SHOULD I BE LOOKING FOR?

There is a myriad of things parents should look for in any early childhood education and care service. And since most services are different because they reflect the emphasis of their community as well as leveraging the strengths of their staff (ie educators and teachers), the bare minimum things you should be looking for are:

1. Do the educators and teachers know each child by their individual names without assistance (eg names on hats)?

2. How do they handle unique needs of children under their care (eg medical issues, marital states)?

3. What kinds of mechanisms does the service use to engage with parents to communicate and discuss the needs of their children?

4. Can you see if they have an “open door” policy, not just when families can come and visit at any time, but also easy access to information?

5. Have they consistently leveraged other parents’ information about their children’s experiences and interests in and outside of their home in order to boost their children’s learning and awareness?

6. When there are problems with children (and there will always be), how are they handled?

7. What resources does the service provide to help you as parents when your children are back in your care?

As much as the government wants you to think they are all providing the same kind of educational curriculum and care, the actual reality is that they do not and you will have to visit each of them to size each of them up.

These can be explored through interactions with the service’s staff, especially the approved provider, centre director and educational leader. Conversations with and feedback from other parents can be found through site visits as well as their Facebook pages (although such online comments tend to be either effusively good or bad.)

A useful factsheet can be found via https:// www.startingblocks.gov.au/at-child-care/preparing-to-start/

HOW TO ENROL MY CHILD?

Once you have decided which service you would like to enrol your child at, you will be asked to provide the following information:

1. Your child’s birth certificate.

2. Your child’s Centrelink Customer Reference Number (CRN).

3. Your family’s contact details.

4. Contact details and information on who you authorise to collect your child from the service and who may be in contact in the event of an emergency and you cannot be reached.

5. Information about your child, including their eating and sleeping routines, interests, levels of abilities, past and current illnesses if any, allergies, as well as your child’s health care contacts (usually your General Practitioner).

Your child’s immunisation history (which is a statement from the Australian Childhood Immunisation Register on the Department of Human Services website (www.humanservices. gov.au).

Chiang Liam is CEO of the Australian Childcare Alliance NSW.

WHEN and IF

to refer your child to therapy

BY DI BARTOK

ISmy child normal is a question parents often ask themselves, while deep down knowing that there is no “normal”. But, when children display behaviour parents perceive as out of kilter with their peers, or are confronted with bullying and peer pressure, it is a difficult decision for parents to decide that the child may need professional help.

So, when should parents seek the help of a psychologist or a counsellor?

According to one child psychologist consulted for this story, children are more resilient than we realise - we just need to give them time to adjust.

If the “problem” is still affecting the child after about six months, then further action could be considered, says psychologist Michelle R.

“Most children will have some emotional or behavioural changes as a result of the natural ups and downs of life, such as family changes, bullying and the changing demands of school,” Michelle said.

“However, with love and support at home, they will cope and adjust to most of these changes in the short term.”

Michelle said parents could seek advice from professionals if their child’s issue does not improve in six months’ time.

“Speak with your child’s teacher about what you have observed and obtain their feedback. Teachers have a good awareness of the varied age-appropriate behaviours of children.

“You can also speak with a paediatrician or general practitioner about any concerns you have for your child’s behaviour or emotional well-being.”

If parents still feel they need a psychologist for their child, your GP or paediatrician will refer you to one best suited to your child’s needs.

What can you expect from a psychologist?

Each psychologist will have their own process for how they manage referrals for children. In most cases, the psychologist will want to meet with the parents to discuss their concerns for their child and obtain more information on the child’s history.

Michelle said psychologists working with children will incorporate play and make therapy activities fun and engaging.

“It is important that you are involved in the process and attend appointments with your child, even if you do most of the time in the waiting room,” she said.

But the real work begins at home

The psychologist may have recommendations for parents regarding behaviour management strategies to utilise at home, environmental changes to make the child feel more comfortable, as well as reminding the child to utilise the strategies taught directly to them in session.

Money saving for young families tips & tricks

BY CHIANG LIAM

IKNOW I know. Who would have thought that a state government would want to help young families. If you live in New South Wales, there actually happens to be several offers from the NSW Government that can be useful, for example:

• Energy Switch – comparing electricity and gas plans to help you save (see https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/use-energy-switch-comparison-tool)

• $100 voucher per year for your children’s creative and cultural activities (see https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/campaign/creative-kids)

• $100 voucher per year for your children’s sport, fitness and recreation (see https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/campaign/active-kids)

• Toll relief – free or half price car registration for frequent toll users (see https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/claim-your-toll-relief)

• The Family Energy Rebate for those receiving Family Tax Benefit (FTB) for the previous financial year (see https://www.service.nsw.gov. au/transaction/apply-family-energy-rebate-retail-customers)

• You can access a discount if you choose to install an energy efficient air conditioning system, or if you replace your old air conditioning system with a more energy efficient model. (see https:// www.energy.nsw.gov.au/households/rebates-grants-and-schemes/ household-energy-saving-upgrades/upgrade-your-air-conditioning).

• 40% off the cost of a new fridge or 50% off the cost of a new television if you are a health care concession holder (see https://www. service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/apply-appliance-replacement-offer)

And if you have a child enrolled in an early childhood education and care service provider who is a member of the Australian Childcare Alliance NSW, you can also potentially save some significant electricity bills by submitting one of your most recent electricity bills via a portal and someone will contact you without charge to advise whether you are already on the best rate possible or if you can save money by switching (again without charge).

Chiang Liam is CEO of the Australian Childcare Alliance NSW.

Di Bartok, journalist and mum of two.

Schools trial AI app

Focus on ethical use

An artificial intelligence app designed by the NSW Department of Education is being trialled in selected schools across the state starting this first term.

Called NSWEduChat, the department said it is recommended for navigating by teachers and students because it is a suitable teaching tool unlike other AI apps that parents and teachers are concerned about on cyber safety and ethical use.

“This trial is an important first step in safely navigating generative AI for use in schools, while upholding safety, security and best practice for our students and teachers,” deputy premier and NSW minister for education Prue Car said.

“As one of the world’s largest providers of public education, I am proud that NSW has developed NSWEduChat, a safe and secure tool with great potential to enhance learning and give students valuable hands-on experience with this game-changing technology.

Generative AI is rapidly evolving and offers both challenges and opportunities – and, like many sectors, education is already seeing the impact of new AI tools and practices.”

The department said the app was “designed to be safe and ethical for use in schools, directly relevant and appropriate” in classrooms.

The app was developed following an agreement in October last year among education ministers in all states and territories that outlined the key principles in the Australian Framework for Generative Artificial Intelligence in Schools.

In NSW, 16 schools - 10 high schools, four primary schools, one School for Specific Purposes and one Environmental Education Centre - were selected to take part in the trial for the next two school terms this year.

However, teachers make the decision how they will use the tool in their classrooms while students are given access to the app via the department’s student portal.

THE APP’S KEY FEATURES INCLUDE:

• The app is secured, and data controlled and visible only to the department to ensure potential data security breaches.

• The department’s embedded controls means that the responses generated are aligned with Australian curriculums, values and policies.

• Only responds to students’ questions related to school activities and subject topics as part of content filtering and can delete any inappropriate content.

• Students are not given full answers to questions they have asked to encourage critical thinking, and instead prompted to feedback on the outcome.

• The app provided higher-quality and accurate support which are free to the users instead of paying as other AI tools require.

Those participating in the trial receive assistance and support from experts, technical resources and a virtual staffroom. The department expects the trial’s results to help inform the future direction of using AI in the state’s school system.

VISAS JUST FOR BEING GRANDPARENTS

AUSTRALIA is an immigrant country. That has been the case since 1788. One in every two Australians are either from overseas themselves or has a parent who is from overseas.

You and your family live in Australia, but your parents do not. And as your children grow up, having their grandparents around would mean just the world to you.

So did you know that Australia has a Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa (subclass 870) that began in April 2019? This visa provides overseas-based parents to be with their children and grandchildren in Australia.

The application fee is $5,000 for a visa of up to three years and $10,000 for up to five years. Strangely, this fee is unclear as to whether it is for one parent or two.

Unlike other parent visas, the 870 visa does not require the parent to meet the Balance of Family test (see https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visalisting/contributory-aged-parent-864/balance-of-family-test). It also does not lead to Australian permanent residency. For further information, consult your immigration agent.

GETTING QUALITY PRAMS, COTS, BABY MONITORS AND MORE BUT CHEAPER

AS a fellow parent, it is just easier to get everything new and from the shops. But unless you are on a pretty good wicket, we are all economising, especially young parents on a budget.

So how do modern, quality conscious, safety first parents balance their needs and their pockets? Enter Facebook Marketplace.

Interested in a Mountain Buggy Urban Jungle pram? Brand new, it can be $799. On Facebook Marketplace, you can pick one up for $200 in excellent condition.

How about a Boori Classic Cot for $719? Would you like a preloved one for $150?

What about a basic Oricom Video (Baby) Monitor SC720 for $229? Would you like $120 for one that is still in good working order?

Pretty much anything you want can be bought preloved on Facebook Marketplace. And most savvy parents know that once you have used them, you can also sell them on Facebook Marketplace and still get some money back.

Best of all, there are no fees or charges. And you can always have a peep into the seller’s profile on Facebook to see, maybe, what kind of parents they might be.

Support, care for pregnant women and babies in NSW

FAMILIES across NSW will benefit from a new initiative to enhance pregnancy care for women and their babies.

Minister for Health Ryan Park said the new Pregnancy Connect initiative will focus on improving early access to specialist maternity care, particularly for women in regional and rural NSW.

The announcement coincides with the First 2000 Days 2024 Symposium, hosted by NSW Health to explore the importance of a child’s early life experience from conception to age five.

Women who are identified as having the greatest risks to their health and wellbeing during pregnancy will be actively connected to antenatal care early and regularly.

This will include increased use of virtual care services and the safe transfer of women who require higher levels of care, to reduce the sense of dislocation often experienced by women and their families in this situation.

Recruitment is underway for 12 full time equivalent midwives and eight full time equivalent obstetricians to lead the program.

“We know that the first 2000 days of a child’s life is a critical time for physical, cognitive, social and emotional health with a flow on impact throughout their life.

MINISTER FOR HEALTH RYAN PARK

This will improve support for existing regional and rural maternity clinicians, with a team of specialist obstetricians that they can call on for advice – this will also reduce the sense of isolation for staff.

Pregnancy Connect will be supported by an ongoing annual investment of $6.19M.

Minister Park will announce the initiative at the First 2000 Days 2024 Symposium.

The symposium is an opportunity for knowledge sharing and collaboration among NSW Health professionals and research as well as government agency partners, to ensure all NSW children and their families have what they need to thrive.

Another key focus of the symposium is ensuring consumer voices are reflected in designing and delivering services. This includes women with lived experience, Aboriginal families and families in regional areas.

Minister for Health Ryan Park said: “The NSW Government is committed to building a healthy foundation that lasts a lifetime.

“We know that the first 2000 days of a child’s life is a critical time for physical, cognitive, social and emotional health with a flow on impact throughout their life.

“Through Pregnancy Connect, we will improve access to specialist care close to home for women during pregnancy.

“This initiative is an investment in our midwifery and obstetric workforce and will see a boost to staff numbers in every local health district.

“By working together and directing our efforts to better support children and their families, we can make a big difference and improve long term health outcomes for everyone.”