Starting school can be overwhelming. Thankfully, there’s help available.

Local mum, educator and founder of The Reading Village Kellyanne Cazeau has 16 years of classroom experience. 

Her advice to parents and carers with children starting school in the next year or so is simple – start now.

It’s a marathon, not a sprint

“I first want to preface this by saying, please don’t think about doing this the week before school starts. This is year long… think of it long term.”

She explained that preparation actually begins much earlier than many would think.

The reason for this extended timeline becomes clear when considering what school demands of children: “School is a massive change for children just because of the length of the day and also what it’s requiring of them emotionally, mentally, socially.

“It’s so demanding. And many Prep children have meltdowns every day.”

Independence is Key

Rather than focusing solely on academic skills, Kellyanne emphasised the importance of fostering independence: “One of the best ways you can prepare your child for the first year of school is to help them to become more independent.

“They’re not going to have you with them all the time as a shadow.”

She suggested practical ways to build independence: “Ways we can help them become more independent is to give them opportunities to be away from you, their main caregiver.

“If they’re not going to kindergarten already, maybe it’s play dates with a friend. There’s lots of different opportunities.

“But also give them independence with opening their lunchbox and doing up their bag.”

For parents worried about certain skills, Kellyanne offered reassurance: “Shoelaces isn’t a big thing because you can have Velcro.

“But making sure they can toilet themselves properly. Just giving them as many skills as you as you can for them to be able to be independent and to communicate what they need to their caregiver.”

Preparing for social challenges

Drawing from her experience as a mum, Kellyanne shared specific social preparation needs: “In my case, I have an only child, so socially I needed to prepare him in being able to take turns sharing.

“This is going to be taught in school anyway, so they don’t have to have it all perfect, but just preparing them as well that it’s different from home.”

She explained a crucial reality children need to understand: “The teacher has 20 plus kids in front of them, not just you.

“So you may not be heard straight away and you’re going to have to wait to be heard.”

Better Ways to Connect after School

Many parents struggle with getting information about their child’s day.

Kellyanne offered practical advice based on her own experience: “My son does not want to talk as soon as he jumps into the car.

“Timing is key. Asking them as soon as they’ve hopped in the car is probably not the best time.”

She suggested being more strategic with questions: “Also being more specific with your question… if you know their timetable, that they had Art today, that they had PE today…

“Are you trying to find out how they’re doing emotionally, or are you just trying to build connection with them?”

Kellyanne reminded parents that connection doesn’t have to come through questioning: “We don’t have to build connection by asking about their school day.

“It could just be by going for a run with them or kicking a ball with them.”

For parents who do want to ask about school, she recommended specific questions like: “who did you play with today?”, “did you have fun playing that?”, “what did you guys do?”, “how was sport today?”, and “what did you learn?”

“They’re more direct questions than how was your day?”

Managing Separation Anxiety

For children who struggle with being away from their parents, Kellyanne shared practical strategies from her own experience: “Some things that I do for my child is to leave something with him that reminds him of me… little love notes in their lunchbox… he can read now, so that’s great.

“It could be a photo of the two of you. It could be just a little trinket… I’ve got a little stone love heart that I give him.”

The purpose of these items is clear: “Just things that, when he’s thinking of me or he needs something to connect with me, he’s got that in his pocket.”

Parents need support too

Kellyanne was honest about her own struggles and how they affect children and she encouraged parents to seek their own support: “Do whatever you need to do to feel supported with letting go. Cause it’s hard. It’s really hard.”

The challenge of losing control was something Kellyanne related to personally: “It’s so hard letting go and wanting to be in control. I’m a control freak.

“When you send your child to school, you do not have control over their day at all.”

Article supplied with thanks to Hope Media.

Feature image: Canva

About the Author: Joni Boyd is a writer, based in the Hawkesbury Region of NSW. She is passionate about the power of stories shared, to transform lives.

After years of near-misses, the tawny frogmouth has finally claimed the crown as 2025 Australian Bird of the Year.

In the biennial poll run by The Guardian and BirdLife Australia, more than 310,000 votes were cast in this year’s contest.

This victory is all the more satisfying because the frogmouth has placed second three times before, in 2019, 2021 and 2023. 

In this year’s final tally, it received 11,851 votes, beating out Baudin’s black cockatoo (7,688 votes) and the gang-gang cockatoo (6,256) for the title.

The tawny frogmouth is a nocturnal, camouflaged bird often mistaken for an owl.

Because it blends into tree bark and perches motionless, many people don’t notice it, even though it’s more widespread than assumed.

Its plumage helps it vanish into trunks and branches during daylight, a clever survival strategy.

Sean Dooley, from BirdLife Australia, said the public’s response “has been really joyful,” (The Guardian).

But the poll isn’t just about fun, it shines light on the threats faced by our birdlife, such as habitat loss, deforestation and development pressure.

What is the Aussie Bird Count (and why it matters)

Immediately following the Bird of the Year poll is Aussie Bird Count, Australia’s largest citizen science event. 

Right now, people are invited to spend just 20 minutes observing and tallying birds in their backyard, local park, schoolyard or balcony.

The goals are simple but powerful:

• To build a national snapshot of bird populations
• To help conservationists understand trends in birdlife
• To raise awareness that one in six Australian birds is at risk of extinction (Aussie Bird Count)

It’s easy to join: register, pick a spot, count what you see in 20 minutes, and submit your results via the Aussie Bird Count app or website.

Schools, councils, community groups and individuals are all encouraged to take part.

Because birds react to changes in habitat, climate and human impact, those counts help scientists, land managers and communities make better decisions to protect our feathered neighbours.

The joy and purpose behind counting birds

These two events, Bird of the Year and Aussie Bird Count, are more than contests. 

They celebrate Australia’s native birds, inspire connection with nature, and invite everyone into caring, noticing and stewardship.

BirdLife Australia notes that as Bird of the Year unfolds, people are also drawn to the species in the Top 10, some of which are endangered, such as the southern emu-wren.

By voting, noticing and sharing, millions help spotlight species that might otherwise remain hidden from public view.

When more people get involved in the count, the data improves. 

That means better understanding of habitat loss, climate pressures, declining species, and where conservation efforts can focus.

As we listen for frogmouth calls or spot winged visitors in our yards, we begin to see how every creature, big or small, matters.

Let’s celebrate the 2025 Bird of the Year and commit to keeping count, because nature is worth noticing.

Article supplied with thanks to Hope Media.

About the Author: Joni Boyd is a writer, based in the Hawkesbury Region of NSW. She is passionate about the power of stories shared, to transform lives.

Feature image: Canva

The 36th Australian National Prayer Breakfast will be held on Monday, 3 November 2025, bringing together parliamentarians, community leaders, and everyday Australians in a morning of prayer, encouragement and reflection.

Hosted by David Smith MP and Henry Pike MP, co-chairs of the Parliamentary Christian Fellowship, the event will be held in the Great Hall of Parliament House, Canberra, and also livestreamed for those joining from home.

This year’s theme is “Rejoicing in Hope”, and the breakfast will feature guest speaker Dr. John Dickson and a performance by the St Edmund’s College Gospel Choir, whose music will carry messages of unity, faith and hope.

“I’m honoured to join the 2025 National Prayer Breakfast at Parliament House — an annual reminder that faith and prayer aren’t just private comforts but public goods,” Dr Dickson said.

“This year’s theme, Rejoicing in Hope, captures the heart of what has carried believers through the centuries — through trials, joys, and failures — from the very beginning. 

“May it do the same for us today.”

What to Expect On The Day

The program includes reflections and prayers by parliamentarians, a keynote address by Dr Dickson and musical interludes and worship led by the gospel choir. Doors open early for registration.

For those unable to come in person, the breakfast will be livestreamed starting at 7:15am AEDT (with a corresponding stream for 7:15am AWST).

For those attending in person, registration is required.

What makes the Prayer Breakfast Significant

Founded in 1986 by MPs across parties, the National Prayer Breakfast is rooted in the tradition of the Parliamentary Christian Fellowship. 

Over its history, it has served as a bipartisan, interdenominational platform for public prayer, reflection, and encouragement for Australia’s leaders and people.

In past years, the event has drawn thousands of viewers online. 

In 2024 alone, over 33,000 people watched the keynote address via livestream.

Why this year’s theme speaks to us

“Rejoicing in Hope” is a reminder that even in uncertain times, hope remains central to Christian faith. 

The theme is tied to The First Hymn — the oldest known Christian hymn preserved in musical notation from the 3rd century — which has been revived and linked to this year’s event.

As the organisers explain, the hymn expresses the biblical call: “Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer” (Romans 12:12).

Dr Dickson’s role brings depth to the conversation. A historian, author, and public Christian voice, Dickson has held academic positions in Australia and abroad and is well known for bridging faith, culture, and ideas.

How to be part of this year’s Prayer Breakfast

In person: If you wish to attend at the Great Hall at Parliament House in Canberra, you must register in advance. 

Online or in a local hub:  You can also join via livestream from your home, church, or workplace. The event will be broadcast nationally. Register here.

A Moment To Reflect and Unite

The National Prayer Breakfast is more than a gathering—it’s a reminder that people of faith, across political, cultural and personal divides, can pause together and lift their hearts in prayer for the nation.

As the organisers put it, this event is about “reflection, encouragement, and hope for all who care deeply about the future of our nation.”

Article supplied with thanks to Hope Media.

About the Author: Joni Boyd is a writer, based in the Hawkesbury Region of NSW. She is passionate about the power of stories shared, to transform lives.

Feature image: Canva

In a move toward greater inclusion, Guide Dogs Australia and Hallmark Australia have unveiled a new card range designed so people living with low vision or blindness can participate fully in the tradition of giving and receiving greeting cards.

The card range has been designed by people living with low vision or blindness, ensuring those directly impacted are the ones helping shape the outcome.

It features high contrast colours, braille, and clear, easy-to-read fonts—designed to make greetings accessible to more Australians.

“For Australians living with low vision or blindness, being included in this tradition is incredibly powerful,” Lee Kumutat of Guide Dogs Australia said.

For Hallmark, the partnership “reflects our commitment to ensuring all Australians have the opportunity to connect with their family, friends and loved ones,” according to Lyndal Matthews, Hallmark’s Product & Marketing Director.

How the Cards Work

The collection includes twelve distinct card designs—birthdays, thank yous, thinking-of-you messages, and more. 

Standout features include high contrast colours, making text and design elements more visible, braille messaging and tactile embossing, allowing those using touch to read them and clear, easy-to-read typefaces to help people with residual vision read comfortably.

The new cards are now available for purchase from all major retailers.

“These small moments of inaccessibility make the world become so small.”

23-year-old Karlee Symonds who lives in Sydney with her Guide Dog Isla said, “Opening a card might seem like a small and unimportant thing to most, but for someone with blindness, it can highlight just how often the world isn’t designed for us.

“I’ve celebrated milestones where I couldn’t read the card in my hands in front of friends with everyone waiting for my reaction, it makes me feel invisible and awkward. 

“These small moments of inaccessibility build up and can make the world become so small.

“Accessible greeting cards mean my community can share in life’s simple but special joys just like anyone else, it means we feel included and that our milestones are just as important as everyone else’s.”

Inclusive Design In Australian Products

The approach taken to creating this range reflects a growing movement in Australia toward inclusive product design.

One standout example is Mr Hux, an Australian fragrance brand that introduced braille labels on its packaging, enabling allows people living with vision impairment to read product information themselves rather than relying on memory or external assistance. 

Their choice to include braille demonstrates how brands in everyday sectors—like beauty—can extend accessibility to more people.

Why Accessibility Matters

Accessibility is more than compliance—it’s about inclusion. Many people living with low vision or blindness are left out of everyday joys because standard design overlooks their needs.

By involving those with lived experience in the design process, Hallmark and Guide Dogs have modelled what true inclusion looks like. 

Features like high contrast, tactile details, and legible fonts are not just “extras”—they are essential components that allow people to belong.

Let’s hope this card range encourages more brands to think inclusively—to ask, “Who is left out?”—and to design products that bring more people in.

Article supplied with thanks to Hope Media.

About the Author: Joni Boyd is a writer, based in the Hawkesbury Region of NSW. She is passionate about the power of stories shared, to transform lives.

Feature image: Supplied

While heart disease is often seen as a man’s issue, the reality is that it affects women just as much.

“Women are 10 times more likely to die from heart disease than from breast cancer,” said consultant dietitian and longevity medicine practitioner Dr. Naras Lapsys.

This is a wake-up call for women to take their heart health seriously, especially after 40, when hormonal changes increase the risk.

Dr. Amelia Haines explains that menopause can shift hormone levels, removing the natural protective effect women have against heart disease. 

As a result, it’s more important than ever to raise awareness and take proactive measures to safeguard our hearts.

Omega 3 fatty acids is a key nutrient, essential for maintaining heart health and helpful in regulating the heart’s electrical impulses, reducing inflammation, and improving blood viscosity. 

These fats can also reduce the risk of irregular heartbeats and conditions like atrial fibrillation. 

While oily fish, like salmon and sardines are great sources (those on plant-based diets can turn to algal supplements as an alternative).

Cholesterol is another common concern when it comes to heart health. 

Dr. Naras clears up a lot of confusion by revealing that most of the cholesterol in our bodies is produced naturally, rather than coming from our diet. 

So, while dietary cholesterol can impact heart health, it’s not as significant as we once thought. 

Instead, knowing your lipid profile—including LDL and triglyceride levels—is a more accurate way to assess your cardiovascular risk.

Article supplied with thanks to Hope Media.

Feature image: Canva

About the Author: Joni Boyd is a writer, based in the Hawkesbury Region of NSW. She is passionate about the power of stories shared, to transform lives.

In the past, phrases like “toughen up” were common.

But Ian Barnett, representing the National Grandparent Movement, points out that there’s been a shift toward understanding resilience as a mindset rather than a form of toughness. 

Today’s youth face unique challenges, especially in a digital world.

Instead of toughening up our grandkids, grandparents can foster resilience by teaching them how to cope with setbacks and failure in a supportive environment.

“Let them fall over; give them a minute before you jump in,” Ian said, giving an example of teaching them to cope with setbacks.

While it’s essential to reassure grandchildren of their worth no matter the outcome, Ian says it’s also crucial that they learn from their mistakes.

This balance of support and allowing room for failure equips kids to handle life’s challenges with greater strength and perseverance.

When inclusivity and affirmation are prioritised, we may want to shield our grandkids from any discomfort.

But according to Ian, facing small challenges early on prepares them for bigger ones in the future. 

“Encourage them if they win; encourage them if they fail,” he said.

Grandparents have a unique opportunity to guide the younger generation through these evolving challenges.

Grandparents who embrace their role as “a role model” and decide to be there for their grandchildren, regardless of the outcome make all the difference.

By listening and engaging in meaningful conversations, grandparents are helping them build both emotional and mental resilience.

Article supplied with thanks to Hope Media.

Feature image: Canva

About the Author: Joni Boyd is a writer, based in the Hawkesbury Region of NSW. She is passionate about the power of stories shared, to transform lives.

Families can find themselves scattered across vast distances.

Whether you’re separated by suburbs, states, or even countries, maintaining a strong relationship with your grandchildren can seem challenging. 

However, Ian Barnett of the National Grandparent Movement discusses three ways grandparents can keep their bonds strong, despite the geographical divide.

The “tyranny of distance” is one of the top challenges facing modern grandparents, Ian believes.

Gone are the days when families lived in close-knit communities, and now, many grandparents find themselves far away from their grandkids. 

“Some people grow up thinking, ‘Our kids will buy in the same area,’ but it doesn’t happen that way anymore,” he said.

This shift can create both physical and emotional distance, but according to Ian and Ben, with the right mindset and tools, it doesn’t have to cause disconnection.

1. Budget for bonding

One of the most important steps for maintaining relationships across distance is planning ahead.

“Start setting aside some resources to make it happen,” Ian said, emphasising that budgeting for travel allows grandparents to be present during key moments in their grandchildren’s lives. 

Whether it’s birthdays, graduations, or performances, making time for these special events strengthens the bond and shows your grandkids just how much they mean.

2. Use technology well

While seeing each other in person is ideal, technology can also play a big role in staying connected.

Video calls on platforms like FaceTime or Zoom offer a way to keep in touch regularly. 

According to Ian, families have embraced scheduled weekly calls, with grandkids even getting used to the routine, “They’ve got used to that.” 

These regular touchpoints reinforce the idea of a grandparent who is always there, even if they’re not physically present.

3. Make the most of special moments

Technology aside, showing up for important milestones is vital. 

Asking if you can be there for a school performance or sending a thoughtful letter can make a huge impact, Ian explained. 

“Even if it’s once or twice a year, you’re regular in the once or twice a year.”

Showing up, even digitally, matters more than the frequency.

In the end, grandparenting from a distance is about being present in meaningful ways, making sure your love and support are felt no matter how far apart you are. 

Embrace technology, plan your visits, and most importantly, stay committed to being there for your grandkids, even if it’s from a long way away.

Article supplied with thanks to Hope Media.

Feature image: Canva

About the Author: Joni Boyd is a writer, based in the Hawkesbury Region of NSW. She is passionate about the power of stories shared, to transform lives.

We recently sat down with powerhouse casting director Anousha Zarkesh, to discover how much things are really changing for women in film and TV.

Anousha has a front-row seat to the shift happening behind the scenes. 

“Women are now head of television, they’re producers, they’re head of network,” ssays Anousha. 

Platforms like Netflix and Amazon are putting more women in leadership, and the stories being told are richer and more relatable because of it.

But there’s still work to do, especially when it comes to women over 40.

Thankfully, more female writers and directors are pushing back — creating stories that show women at every stage of life as complex, vibrant, and real.

According to Anousha, authentic representation is another big focus.

“You have to cast authentically. It’s a lived experience,” Anousha says. 

And she’s not just talking about ticking boxes — she’s committed to finding real talent in remote communities and giving voice to diverse lived experiences.

Shows like Redfern Now and Mystery Road are proof of how powerful storytelling can be when it’s grounded in authenticity.

This matters more than ever, Anousha believes and explains that when different voices are given space behind the scenes, the entire storytelling landscape changes; we get narratives that feel real, characters we recognize, and experiences that resonate way beyond the screen.

Article supplied with thanks to Hope Media.

Feature image: Canva

About the Author: Joni Boyd is a writer, based in the Hawkesbury Region of NSW. She is passionate about the power of stories shared, to transform lives.

Colin Buchanan’s diverse career—from country music to children’s entertainment—is a perfect example of how creativity doesn’t always need a rigid plan.

Instead, sometimes it’s all about following the opportunities that come your way.

“I haven’t really had a plan,” Colin admitted

But his natural evolution into various creative fields has made him a household name, especially in the world of children’s music.

Colin didn’t map out his career from the start, but this approach led him to incredible places.

With no rigid plans in mind, he has found success in both country music (with nine Golden Guitar Awards) and children’s entertainment, showing how following what excites you can lead to unexpected but fulfilling paths.

What many people love about Colin Buchanan is his authenticity. 

Whether on Play School or performing for children or seniors, his genuine joy comes through.

Surprisingly, Colin puts this down to a habit he created around visualising his son, Elliot, which helped him stay connected to his audience.

The heart of his work, especially in children’s music, lies in this connection—making kids feel valued and seen through fun and playful interactions.

Article supplied with thanks to Hope Media.

Feature image: Supplied and used with permission.

About the Author: Joni Boyd is a writer, based in the Hawkesbury Region of NSW. She is passionate about the power of stories shared, to transform lives.

What happens when life suddenly throws you into a situation you never expected — like finding out someone close to you has been arrested?

For many, it’s a total shock. 

As Dr. Amelia Haynes puts it, “It comes out of left field — and by the time the crime is revealed, they’re not always ‘loved ones’ anymore.”

Dr. Amelia tackles the deep, often hidden impact of incarceration on families — especially women left behind.

And it’s not just emotional — it’s practical, too.

Suddenly you’re managing finances alone, raising kids solo, and figuring out things you never had to before — all while carrying the heavy weight of stigma and shame.

“We do the crime, but friends and family also share the time,” Dr. Amelia says. And it’s so true.

Life doesn’t just pause because someone you know went to prison.

You’re left to pick up the pieces — often feeling isolated and invisible.

Organizations like Kairos Outside are changing the story. 

They offer confidential, supportive weekends for women navigating life after a loved one’s incarceration.

Here, there’s no judgment. No assumptions. 

Just women supporting women, showering each other with the unconditional acceptance they’ve been craving.

Some women even attend under pseudonyms because of the high-profile nature of their situation — that’s how much shame they’re battling.

But once they step into this space? Everything starts to change.

Fear melts away. Walls come down. Real healing begins.

Kairos Outside gives women a lifeline — practical tools for rebuilding life, and a community that says, “You are not alone.”

If you or someone you know is carrying the hidden burden of a loved one’s imprisonment, this episode is one you have to hear.

Article supplied with thanks to Hope Media.

Feature image: Canva

About the Author: Joni Boyd is a writer, based in the Hawkesbury Region of NSW. She is passionate about the power of stories shared, to transform lives.