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 between sleep, behaviour, emotions, learning, and overall wellbeing, while helping parents better understand what healthy sleep looks like at different stages of childhood.

Together, we discuss common sleep challenges, practical strategies to support healthy sleep habits, and how parents can approach sleep with confidence and compassion. Whether you're supporting a newborn, toddler, preschooler, or school-aged child, this conversation offers valuable information to help your family build positive sleep foundations.

Join us for an insightful discussion on why sleep truly is a pillar of wellbeing.

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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 support children’s learning, development, confidence, and transition into their early education journey.

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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 the reality of busy family life, the pressures parents often feel around school food, and how small, practical changes in school food environments can make a big difference to children’s energy, focus, and wellbeing. This conversation opens up a broader discussion about shared responsibility between families and schools, and how we can better support children’s nutrition without adding to parental overwhelm.

A thoughtful and practical episode for anyone navigating the daily juggle of school lunches and looking for realistic ways to ease the load.

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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 family life, this conversation is all about making lunchboxes more manageable and less stressful.

Because feeding children well doesn’t have to be complicated it just needs to be sustainable.

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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 everyday parenting and how small, consistent moments of connection can make a lasting impact.

Whether you’re a new parent or raising older children, this episode offers simple, meaningful ways to strengthen your bond and support your child’s emotional wellbeing.

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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 the pledge works, why early smartphone access can be challenging for kids, and how a united approach can reduce pressure on both children and parents. We also explore practical ways to start conversations, build momentum within your school, and feel confident in setting boundaries that protect childhood.

This is a thoughtful and empowering conversation for any parent navigating the digital world and looking for a more connected, intentional path forward.

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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, frustration, and emotional outbursts, while giving parents and caregivers the confidence to stay calm and present in tough moments.

Whether you’re navigating tantrums, big feelings, or everyday challenges, this episode offers reassuring insights and tools to help you support your child with empathy and clarity.

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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.

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