Childhood Matters by Bower Education
by Bower Education
Welcome to Bower Education's Childhood Matters podcast, presented by hosts Jane Parolin, Sam Payze, and Chelsea Oliver as they delve into the complexities of childcare and child development—covering all the topics that matter to you as a parent. At Childhood Matters, we provide you with the essential tools for parenting, celebrating the wonderful surprises and joys that children bring into our lives.
Episodes
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That’s a Wrap: Season 4 of Childhood Matters
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...
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Child Protection, it's all of our responsibilities - A discussion with The Hon. Alice Rolls MP
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...
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Early Learning Matters
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,...
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Early Childhood: Where the Magic Happens with Margaret Larden
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...
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Sleep: A Pillar of Wellbeing
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…
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Flying Start: 3 Year Old Preschool Program
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...
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Good Mood Food: Rethinking School Canteens
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...
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Lunchbox Pressure: Support from Supermarket Swap
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,...
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The Power of Secure Attachment with Nicola Vozzo
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…
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Press Pause: The Movement to Delay Smartphones
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…
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Child Development Practitioner, Nicola Vozzo: Supporting Big Emotions
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...
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Start the Conversation: Tools from Kristi McVee
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…
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EmmaMemma’s Musical Language: Bringing Auslan to Life
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…
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Kristi McVee: Former Detective and Child Safety Expert
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…
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Season 4: The Next Generation, It's Our Responsibility
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...
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A Deeper Understanding Of Play With Marc Armitage
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…
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Balancing Babies and Business
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…
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Inside The Spectrum: What's behind the behaviours?
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…
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Beyond The Story: Writing For Childrens Mental Health And Wellbeing
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...
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Childcare Decisions: Where do you start?
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...
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Philosophy with Purpose: Why Reggio Shapes Our Practice
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...
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Bedtime Battles with Burgo
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…
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Bite Sized Emotions: Speech Pathologist Breaks Down Toddler Communication
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...
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Occupational Therapy Explained: Early Intervention and Support with Dino from OTFC
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…
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Welcome to Season 3: Understanding What Really Matters
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…
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Parenting Through a Dad’s Eyes – A Conversation with Burgo
In this heartfelt and honest chat, Chelsea sits down with good friend Burgo to explore what parenting looks like from a father's perspective. From the joys and challenges to the evolving role of modern dads, Burgo shares his personal experiences, reflections, and the lessons he’s learned along…
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Pathways to Progress and your Child's Milestones
Meg has extensive qualifications, including a Bachelor of Nursing, Graduate Diplomas in Neonatal Care and Clinical Teaching, and is a certified Bayley Scales Assessor. She’s a clinical researcher, published author, and expert in child development. With a career spanning London, Melbourne, and...
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Navigating Parent Separation with Stephanie Loielo, Clinical Psychologist
In this episode we speak to Stephanie Loielo from the Village Around Me about parent separation The Village Around Me Stephanie Loielo Founding Director & Clinical Psychologist https://www.thevillagearoundme.com.au/ https://www.instagram.com/thevillagearoundme/ Send us Fan Mail We acknowledge…
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Parent, Infant Attachment and why it is so important
In this episode we speak to Stephanie Loielo from the Village Around Me about parent and infant attachment. The Village Around Me Stephanie Loielo Founding Director & Clinical Psychologist https://www.thevillagearoundme.com.au/ https://www.instagram.com/thevillagearoundme/ Send us Fan Mail We...
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Inspiring School Lunch Boxes with a twist
In this episode, we're joined by George Georgievski – the creative mind behind School Lunch Box. A proud dad of two daughters and husband to a beautiful wife, George is passionate about food, parenting, and helping families give their kids the best start in life. Since launching his online…
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Welcome To Season 2 Of Childhood Matters
Welcome back to a brand new season of Childhood Matters podcast! After the incredible response to our first season, we’re thrilled to return with a fresh lineup of inspiring guests and insightful episodes. A heartfelt thank you to all our listeners for your support, kind messages, and...
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Why First Aid Training is so important – with guest Nikki from Tiny Hearts Education
In this powerful episode, we’re joined by Nikki, a former paramedic and co-founder of a life-changing baby first aid course. Nikki shares the heartbreaking moments she experienced on the job—situations where simple first aid knowledge could have saved lives or prevented emergency callouts.…
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End of Season 1 Wrap up
Send us Fan Mail We acknowledge this land that we meet on today is the traditional lands for the Kaurna people and that we respect their spiritual relationship with their country.We also acknowledge the Kaurna people as the custodians of the Adelaide region and that their cultural and heritage...
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Eating Together: The Heart of Healthy Families with Feeding Therapist Emily Lively
Join us as we talk to Feeding Therapist Emily Lively and dive into the importance of family nutrition and how to make mealtimes a joyful experience for everyone. We’ll share fun ideas for engaging kids in the kitchen, creating family traditions around mealtime, and fostering healthy eating habits...
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Peter Combe and the Power of Playful Melodies for Children
In this episode, we delve into the magical world of music and nursery rhymes and their crucial role in early childhood development with Peter Coombe one of Australia's best known and most loved children's songwriters. Join us as we explore how singing to young children fosters language skills,...
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The Heart of Support: The Village Co Charity for Mums in Need
In this episode, we talk to Steph Malan from The Village Co. We shine a light on this remarkable charity dedicated to supporting women in vulnerable situations as they prepare to welcome new life. We explore the challenges these mothers face and the crucial resources and services provided by the...
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Bec Hughes From Raising Literacy Australia Talks About Words Grow Minds Campaign
We welcome Bec Hughes from Raising Literacy Australia. Bec will provide further insight into the Words Grow Minds campaign. The Words Grow Minds campaign highlights how actions like talking, reading, playing, and singing from birth help babies and young children thrive and boost brain development...
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Nurturing Healthy Eaters: Supporting Children Through Feeding Challenges with Emily Lively
In this episode, we sit down with Emily Lively, founder of Lively Eaters and expert in paediatric feeding. Emily shares her insights on the importance of nurturing children through their feeding journey, offering practical advice for parents of fussy and tricky eaters. We explore strategies to...
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Children's Mental Wellbeing with Guest Brooke Michell, experienced psychologist, paediatric sleep specialist and mother of 4.
In today's episode, we explore the crucial topic of young children's mental wellbeing. We'll discuss how early experiences shape emotional health and the signs parents can watch for in their little ones. Our guest expert, Brooke Michelle will share insights on nurturing a child's mental…
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Supporting Speech Milestones: Guidance for Speech Development Support with Georgia Payze
In this episode of Childhood Matters, we sit down with a leading speech pathologist to explore the signs and concerns around speech development in children. We’ll dive into what parents and caregivers can do if they notice delays or challenges in their child’s ability to communicate, how to…
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Making Healthier Choices In Shopping Habits with Nabula from Supermarket Swap
Join our Guest - Nabula Brdar from Supermarket Swap. “As a busy mum, I often skipped reading the ingredient list on products in the supermarket. I did a quick scan of the sodium and sugar content, but I often found the ingredient list too hard to decipher due to the presence of multiple additive...
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Transitioning to School Part 2 - With Guest Nat Matulick, Education Consultant and Parent Mentor
Nat Matulick is an Education Consultant and Parent Mentor who empowers parents to help their child have a positive experience of school where they are confident, happy and thriving. Plus, I'm a mum of two gorgeous (and cheeky!) primary-aged kids. With over 20 years’ experience in education (as a...
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Importance Of Play With Guest Marc Armitage, Consultant, Writer and Researcher In Children's Play
Marc Armitage Born and trained in the UK, is now living in Melbourne Australia. Working as an independent professional PLAYworking consultant, writer and researcher in children's play and the wider social worlds of children and young people, Marc regularly travels the world lecturing…
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Language Development - With Georgia Payze Paediatric Speech Pathologist
In this episode, we welcome Georgia Payze, an expert in early literacy, to discuss the importance of early reading and key literacy milestones. Discover how to support your child's literacy journey and foster a lifelong love of learning. Tune in for practical tips and insights on nurturing early...
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Behaviour Guidance For Children with Guest Brooke Michell, experienced psychologist, paediatric sleep specialist and mother of 4.
In this episode, we dive into the world of effective behaviour guidance for children. Join us as we chat with expert, Brooke Michelle about positive parenting techniques, setting healthy boundaries, and fostering a nurturing environment at home. Tune in and discover how to create a harmonious and...
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Importance of Outdoor Play - With Guest Jason Tyndall CEO Nature Play SA
Join us as Guest Speaker, Jason Tyndall, an expert in outdoor education, discusses the vital role of outdoor play in child development. Discover how nature fosters creativity, resilience, and well-being in kids, along with practical tips to encourage more outdoor activities. Tune in for inspiring...
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Transitioning to School with Guest Nat Matulick, Education Consultant and Parent Mentor
Nat Matulick is an Education Consultant and Parent Mentor who empowers parents to help their child have a positive experience of school where they are confident, happy and thriving. Plus, I'm a mum of two gorgeous (and cheeky!) primary-aged kids. With over 20 years’ experience in education (as a...
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Introduction and about your hosts
Welcome to Childhood Matters podcast by Bower Education Meet your Hosts Jane Parolin, Samantha Payze and Chelsea Oliver from Bower Education. Send us Fan Mail We acknowledge this land that we meet on today is the traditional lands for the Kaurna people and that we respect their spiritual...
About this show
Welcome to Bower Education's Childhood Matters podcast, presented by hosts Jane Parolin, Sam Payze, and Chelsea Oliver as they delve into the complexities of childcare and child development—covering all the topics that matter to you as a parent. At Childhood Matters, we provide you with the essential tools for parenting, celebrating the wonderful surprises and joys that children bring into our lives.
Hosted by
Bower Education