Written by Mario El Boustani - Early Childhood Teacher and Practice and Pedagogy lead at Kids College Reading with your child is one of the most valuable and impactful things you can do to support their early learning and development. Decades of research show that shared reading strengthens language, communication, emotional wellbeing, and long‑term academic outcomes [1][2]. It is a simple daily ritual that builds your child’s brain, nurtures your relationship, and fosters a

Children grow rapidly in the early years, and many of their biggest developmental milestones happen while they’re enrolled in early childhood education and care (ECEC). From dropping day sleeps to toilet training, from babies transitioning to solids to preparing for primary school — these transitions can feel huge at times. You should feel satisfied that childcare centres don’t just “manage” these transitions but that they genuinely partner with families, offering guidance, c

Written by Paul Kougious, Approved Provider Kids College Minto If you’re a parent of a young child, you’ve probably wondered when your child will finally sleep on their own. It’s one of the most common questions families ask — and one of the most misunderstood. However, sleep independence isn’t a single milestone. The good news is that independent sleep can be nurtured gently, without harsh methods or unrealistic expectations. And just to keep things tricky for parents, rese

Written by Paul Kougious: Approved Provider at Kids College Minto and parent of two If you’re raising a child under five, you already know that parenting is a blend of joy, exhaustion, wonder, and unpredictability. Amid the seemingly never ending rush of nappies, meals, bedtime routines, and emotional ups and downs, it’s easy to forget one crucial truth: your mental health is one of the strongest determinants of your child’s wellbeing. This isn’t just a comforting idea — it’s

School holidays are a marathon, not a sprint. The first few days feel like a treat, and then somewhere around the middle stretch the “I'm bored” chorus starts and the days feel very long indeed. The trick is having a few ideas ready to pull out, something for sunny days, wet days and everything in between. Here are six easy options around Minto and St Andrews to help you get through the break with everyone smiling. Cool Off at the Aquatic Centre The Gordon Fetterplace Aquatic

When you have little ones, the right park can make or break an outing. A good fence, some shade and play equipment sized for small hands turn a quick stop into a happy hour or two, while the wrong choice can end in tears before you have even unpacked the pram. To save you the trial and error, here are our favourite parks and playgrounds for the under-5s near our Minto and St Andrews centres. Kids Park, Minto True to its name, this is a lovely one for the littlest members of t

There is a particular kind of restlessness that sets in when the rain will not let up and the kids have energy to spare. Before the walls start closing in, it helps to have a few go-to spots up your sleeve. The good news is that the Campbelltown area is full of indoor options that keep little hands busy and let the kids burn off some steam, all within easy reach of Minto and St Andrews. Here are five to keep in your back pocket for the next wet day. Monkey Mania, Leumeah A lo

Every parent knows the quiet dream of a coffee that actually stays hot. When you have little ones in tow, a cafe visit can feel more like a workout than a break, unless you pick the right spot. Happily, there are a few gems around Minto and St Andrews where the kids can play safely while you catch your breath and enjoy a proper cup. Here are four local favourites worth adding to the rotation. Wild Dragonfly Cafe This one is a firm favourite with local families, and it is easy

Between swimming lessons, birthday parties and the weekly shop, family outings can add up fast. The good news is that some of the best days out around Minto and St Andrews do not cost a thing. Our local area is full of parks, gardens and open spaces made for little legs to run and explore, and most are only a short drive from home. Here are five of our favourites to bookmark for the next free weekend. Campbelltown Billabong Parklands If the forecast is warm, this is the one.