Usapang Parental

Paediatric dietitian Dean Paningbatan warns that frequent sweets and junk food in early childhood can create unhealthy eating habits that are hard to break as kids grow.

Australia's new ban blocking under 16 from major social media apps takes effect today. In this episode of Usapang Parental, we look at why some parents welcome the move.

According to Vice Consul Diana Marie Jimenez-Leomo of the Philippine Consulate General in Sydney, being a Filipino-Australian dual citizen opens a world of opportunities for you and your children. You can own property, expand your business, and create a brighter future.

Discover tips for children and parents to confidently discuss sexual health, overcoming shame and discomfort.

A new study reveals that children who regularly take part in household chores tend to develop stronger confidence and discipline, key qualities that contribute to success in school, work, and life.

Being pregnant in a new country can feel overwhelming, but understanding how the system works can help ease worries. Here’s what Filipino mums need to know about navigating pregnancy and maternity care in Australia.

If you’re planning to enroll your baby or toddler in daycare, Specialist GP Dr. Angelica Logarta-Scott explains why they should be immunised.

Shayne Lui didn’t always know she wanted to be an early childhood educator. Growing up around younger cousins, she discovered her passion for working with children after exploring different paths after high school. She shares the joys and challenges of her work.

First-time mum Alpha Capaque from Northern Territory, along with her husband Kevin, hopes to raise their twins deeply connected to both Filipino and Sri Lankan cultures, the heritage they share.

At the heart of the latest exhibit at the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) is not just art, but the power of storytelling highlighting how reading and shared stories can help raise a new generation of young readers.

When Aggie Vlotman had her first child, she expected joy and found it. But she didn’t anticipate the toll it would take on her marriage. Sleepless nights, changing priorities, and unspoken frustrations pushed their relationship to the brink. Yet from that struggle, an idea was born, and a game was created.

A new approach to learning is emerging: interactive, participatory, and immersive play. These engaging experiences can be enjoyed for free at the Science Gallery of the University of Melbourne.

Kirk Manas, a nurse and father from Melbourne, wrote his first children’s book entitled 'Juan Pinoy.' The vibrant story highlights the Filipino culture, inspired by his daughter and his own feelings of disconnection from his roots.

In Filipino culture, family ties are close, but when it comes to discussions about sensitive topics like sex and relationships, boundaries can sometimes be unclear. For parents, balancing guidance and a child's independence can be challenging. How can we navigate these conversations, especially as children grow older and enter relationships? An expert answers.

Many individuals who grew up in the Philippines have experienced physical punishment, such as spanking, as a form of parental discipline. This practice is widely accepted in Filipino culture, but in many countries, it is strictly prohibited.

In the Filipino culture, it’s common for parents to have a significant say in their child’s future, including choosing a course or career. This stems from a desire to see their children succeed. But is it right for parents to influence these choices? An expert answers.

For many Filipinos, co-sleeping is not just a practical choice but a cherished tradition. The practice of parents sharing a bed with their infants or young children is deeply ingrained in the Filipino culture. While co-sleeping is not outright illegal or universally frowned upon in Australia, it is not considered a culturally accepted norm.

Filipino values like "utang na loob" are deeply rooted in the culture, emphasising respect and loyalty, especially between children and parents. While it encourages gratitude for parental sacrifices, it also raises the question: should this be an obligation?

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, Filipinos account for 1.2% of Australia's total population, highlighting a growing community. However, as the community expands and Filipino-Australian children increasingly embrace Australian culture, many become disconnected from their heritage and language, often stating that they cannot speak their native tongue.

In a heartfelt effort to connect her Filipino-Japanese child with her Filipino roots, first-time mum Lara Aoyagi launched the first Filipino playgroup in Cairns, Queensland.

In the Philippines, traditional saving methods like the alkansya, barya, and paluwagan are popular. In Australia, some use the money jar. Teaching children the importance of saving is a crucial life skill, and parents play a vital role in imparting this knowledge.

A new report by the Centre for Policy Development has recommended three days per week of free childcare for some families with a small fee for others. The report argues child care should be seen in the same light as public education and Medicare, which is offered to all Australians.

As any parent can attest, sending a child to daycare often comes with an unwelcome side effect: recurring infections. Childcare centres, with their bustling activity and shared spaces, are breeding grounds for germs. Children interact closely, share toys, and sometimes unknowingly carry viruses.

Nothing is more concerning for a parent than the thought of children falling ill. A Specialist GP emphasises the importance of bolstering children's immune system to help them stay healthy and strong especially this cold season.

Play is not just a pastime; it is a profound educational tool, says an early childhood educator.

As parents, it's natural to feel concerned when our children suddenly burst into tears and screams. Tantrums are inevitable, but there are effective strategies to help parents better understand their child's behaviour.

One mother's quest to preserve her children's Filipino heritage led to the creation of a vibrant and engaging book.

Dealing with children who are picky eaters can be a challenging task. In this episode of Usapang Parental, we delve into the different strategies in helping children develop healthier eating habits.

In this episode of Usapang Parental, mother Gemma Cruz Guotos shares the assistance provided by the NDIS in the ongoing recovery of her twenty-year-old son, Pierre Guotos, diagnosed with ASD, ADHD, and OCD.

Parenting is a challenging journey, and the true measure of strength emerges when faced with the unexpected reality of your child having a disability.

In today's episode of Usapang Parental, a parent and advocate for the preservation of the Filipino language, culture, and traditions, Emily Kay Camongol, discussed simple tips to keep these aspects alive for children growing up in Australia.

One of the most challenging decisions for parents is determining the type of care service that best suits the family's needs. In today's Usapang Parental, we delve into the choice between family day care and long day care (centre-based) with insights from early childhood educator Lori Inumerable.

In today's episode of Usapang Parental, early childhood educator Lori Inumerable discusses the numerous advantages that childcare services bring to the well-being and growth of children.

Choosing the right childcare is an important decision that has a significant impact on a child's overall development and well-being. In this episode of Usapang Parental, Lori Inumerable, an early childhood teacher and early intervention practitioner, shares some valuable insights on what to look for in a childcare provider.

The latest report on the childcare sector from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission suggests families are struggling with the financial burden of early childhood.

Understanding common childhood skin problems is crucial for parents to provide necessary care. In today's episode of Usapang Parental, GP Specialist Angelica Logarta-Scott offers valuable tips.

This Child Protection Week (3-9 September), parents are encouraged to take simple steps to make time for the kids in their life.

Screen time control remains to be a challenge for most parents. In this episode of Usapang Parental, we talk about how parents can help manage their children's screen exposure and how outdoor activities can ease screen time stress.

Drawing from her personal experience, a mother from Brisbane helps kids learn the Filipino language through songs, stories, arts, and play.

An estimated 1.2 million Australian families are expected to benefit from changes to childcare subsidy. But while childcare subsidies are increasing, so does childcare fee and inflation.