Childhood Matters by Bower Education

As we wrap up Season 4 of Childhood Matters, we take a moment to reflect on the incredible conversations and insights shared throughout the season. Join us as we look back on the brilliant guest speakers who generously shared their knowledge, experiences, and passion to support children and families. We also want to extend a heartfelt thank you to our listeners for being part of the journey. Your...

This episode of Childhood Matters welcomes The Hon. Alice Rolls MP,  South Australia's Minister for Child Protection, Minister for Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence, and Member for Unley,  for a vital conversation about how we keep children safe. Together, we explore why child protection is everyone's responsibility, not just the role of government or child protection agencies, but of...

In this episode of Childhood Matters, we celebrate Early Learning Matters Week and explore why the early years are so important in shaping children's futures. We discuss what this national campaign is all about and share how, at Bower Education, our philosophy celebrates children's learning, curiosity, and potential every single day. Join us as we reflect on the powerful impact of qualit...

The early years of a child's life lay the foundation for lifelong learning, development, relationships, and wellbeing. In this episode of Childhood Matters, we speak with author Margaret Larden about her book, Early Childhood: Where the Magic Happens, and the valuable insights it offers families and educators. Margaret describes the book as a practical guide, much like a car manual that can b...

Sleep plays a vital role in every aspect of a child's growth, development, learning, and emotional wellbeing. Yet for many families, navigating sleep challenges can feel overwhelming and exhausting. In this episode of Childhood Matters, we sit down with child psychologist Brooke Michell to explore why sleep is so important for children and families. Brooke shares insights into the connection...

In this episode of Childhood Matters, Chelsea is joined by cohosts Sam and Jane to discuss the Flying Start Preschool Program for 3-year-olds. Together, they explore what the program means for children and families, why these early years are so important, and what families can expect from participating. They also share how our centres are delivering the program and the opportunities it creates to...

In this episode, we chat with two mums behind the Good Mood Food Project, an initiative designed to support schools in rethinking what’s on offer in the canteen. Their goal is simple but powerful to make healthier, more balanced choices more accessible for families, so parents can feel confident and less guilty when opting for a canteen order instead of packing a lunch box every day. We explore th...

In this episode of Childhood Matters, we’re joined by Nabula from Supermarket Swap to talk all things lunchboxes and the pressure that so many parents feel each morning when trying to get it “right.” We explore simple, realistic ways to support healthier lunchbox choices without the overwhelm, guilt, or perfectionism. From easy supermarket swaps to practical ideas that actually fit into busy famil...

In this episode, child development practitioner, Nicola Vozzo explains the concept of secure attachment and why it plays such a crucial role in a child’s development. She explains how strong, responsive relationships help children feel safe, build confidence, and navigate the world with resilience. With practical insights and reassuring guidance, Nicola shares what secure attachment looks like in...

In this episode, we’re joined by Emily from Wait Mate, an inspiring initiative helping families rethink when children should get their first smartphone. Built around a simple but powerful idea strength in numbers, Wait Mate encourages parents within the same school communities to come together and delay smartphone use, creating a shared commitment that supports everyone. Emily walks us through how...

In this episode, child development practitioner, Nicola Vozzo unpacks what’s really going on beneath children’s big emotions and challenging behaviours. With a warm and practical approach, she helps us understand why children react the way they do and how we can respond in ways that build connection, not conflict. Nicola shares simple, effective strategies to support children through overwhelm, fr...

In this practical follow-up episode, Kristi McVee shares simple, effective tools to help children find their voice and build confidence in communication. From easy conversation starters to everyday strategies, Kristi guides parents and caregivers on how to create safe, supportive spaces where kids feel comfortable speaking up. Send us Fan Mail We acknowledge this land that we meet on today is the...

In this joyful and inspiring episode, we’re joined by EmmaMemma to explore the beautiful world of Auslan and the power of music and movement in children’s learning. Emma shares her passion for making communication inclusive, showing how signing, singing, and dancing can come together to help every child feel seen, heard, and understood. We dive into why rhythm, repetition, and physical expression...

In this powerful and eye-opening episode, we speak with a former detective who spent years interviewing children affected by abuse and who now dedicates her life to helping families keep children safe. Drawing from real experiences on the front lines, she shares what every parent and carer needs to know: the warning signs that are often missed, the subtle changes in behaviour that can signal somet...

Welcome to Season 4: The Next Generation, It’s Our Responsibility. In this opening episode, we share what’s ahead for the season as we dive into the realities of raising children in a rapidly changing world. From online safety to broader child wellbeing, we’ll be exploring the challenges families face today and the practical ways we can support both parents and children. We also take a moment to r...

In this episode, “A Deeper Understanding of Play,” we sit down with renowned play consultant Marc Armitage to explore what play really means for children’s development and well-being. Marc shares powerful insights from decades of observing children at play what drives it, why it matters, and how it shapes emotional resilience, creativity, and social connection. Together, we discuss the growing ten...

In this episode of Childhood Matters, we sit down with powerhouse mums Georgie and Alex, the inspiring duo behind Bubish Fashion label. The girls open up about their real experiences of returning to work as new mums, the juggle, the identity shifts, and the unexpected moments in between. They share honest reflections on navigating the many hats motherhood brings, while running a thriving fashion l...

In this episode we explore one of the most important topics for parents and caregivers: the early signs of autism in children and how to know when it may be time to seek a formal diagnosis. Our guest from Autism SA discuss what early developmental differences can look like—from communication delays and limited social engagement to sensory sensitivities and repetitive behaviours, while emphasising...

In this inspiring episode of Childhood Matters, we are joined by the wonderful team behind The Dreamweavers Collective, a creative team who are dedicated to nurturing children’s emotional wellbeing through storytelling. Together, we explore how books can open up gentle yet powerful conversations around mental health, resilience, and self-expression within families. The Dreamweavers Collective shar...

Choosing the right childcare centre can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. In this episode, we break down what families should really be looking for when touring childcare centres and the key questions to ask along the way. From daily routines, communication and centre philosophy, we cover the essentials that can help you feel informed and confident in your choice. We'll also...

In this important episode, we’re addressing a topic that’s at the forefront of every parent and educator’s mind, child safety and protection in early learning settings. With rising concerns in the media and community, we want to offer clarity and reassurance by sharing the practical steps we take every day to keep children safe, supported, and protected in our care. From child protection policies...

In this lighthearted chat with my good friend Ryan Bugress, we dive into one of the great universal parenting challenges, getting children to sleep. We share stories, laugh about the ridiculous lengths parents will go to for just a few extra minutes of quiet, and talk about the ever-changing sleep needs of little ones. From bedtime negotiations, to the strange “rituals” that somehow work, we explo...

Why do toddlers bite, and what are they really trying to say? In this episode, we’re joined by Georgia, a speech pathologist from Sunny Days Speech, to unpack the biting phase and what it reveals about early communication, emotional regulation, and toddler development. Whether your little one is going through it or you just want to be prepared, Georgia shares practical insights and strategies to h...

In Season 3 of Childhood Matters, we're diving deeper into the heart of early childhood and we’re bringing new voices with us. This season, we welcome a range of guest speakers and allied health professionals to help parents, caregivers, and loved ones better understand the early years of a child’s life. Together, we’ll explore the topics that matter to everyone. From child development and be...

In this episode, we’re joined by Dino from Occupational Therapy for Children (OTFC) to explore what occupational therapy is and how it supports children’s development in the early years. Dino shares practical insights on when families might consider seeing an OT, what the therapy process involves, and how parents and caregivers can actively support their child’s progress. Whether you're new t...