The incident report doesn't have to be a source of dread for parents. This episode features Emma Rattenbury, a seasoned early childhood teacher and registered play therapist, who provides a refreshing and empathetic look at "tricky" behaviors in childcare settings. Emma dismantles the shame often associated with biting, hitting, or pushing, explaining these actions as developmental milestones or expressions of unmet needs rather than signs of a 'bad' child. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of why these incidents occur, the importance of educator-parent collaboration, and how to navigate the complex emotions of guilt and protection. With professional grace and practical advice, Emma encourages parents to view these moments with curiosity rather than judgment, offering a roadmap for supporting children through their big emotions.

For more information on Care for Kids, visit www.careforkids.com.au

Follow @careforkidsau

Follow Emma Rattenbury - @emma_in_earlychildhood

Podcast produced by Posterboy Media.

In this episode, we tackle the high-stakes dilemma of school readiness with guest Jacqui, a highly experienced prep teacher and founder of Ready Wrens. With nearly a decade of experience in Melbourne classrooms, Jacqui specialises in bridging the gap between kindergarten and the first year of school. This episode moves beyond the "ABCs and 123s" to focus on the true markers of readiness: emotional regulation and social confidence. Jacqui offers practical advice on navigating professional recommendations, managing 'older child' concerns, and trusting your parental gut. This conversation provides the expert scaffolding parents need to make the best decision for their unique family situation.

(00:00:00) Introduction

(00:01:51) When to expect readiness conversations

(00:07:18) Emotional versus academic readiness

(00:11:42) Defining quality versus detrimental screentime

(00:14:40) Why repeating kindergarten beats repeating prep

(00:21:02) Navigating advice from specialists and PSFOs

(00:29:52) Trusting your gut as a parent

For more information on Care for Kids, visit www.careforkids.com.au

Follow @careforkidsau

For more information on Ready Wrens, visit www.readywrens.com.au

Follow @readywrens

Podcast produced by Posterboy Media.

In this eye-opening episode, we tackle the distressing reality of safety incidents and abuse within Australian childcare settings. Our guest is Kristi McVee, a former police detective with over a decade of experience investigating child abuse and a leading child safety educator. Kristi provides expert insights into why these incidents often go undetected, explaining the sophisticated grooming tactics used by offenders to manipulate both children and adults.

The conversation covers essential red flags for parents and educators, such as boundary-pushing and inappropriate initiation of physical contact, while offering practical advice on fostering bodily autonomy in children. Listeners will learn how to vet centres effectively and the critical steps to take if they suspect a child is at risk.

(00:01:25) Trends in reported childcare abuse

(00:04:11) Why abuse goes unnoticed for years

(00:07:56) How offenders groom other adults

(00:10:20) Red flags in educator-child contact

(00:14:29) What to look for during tours

(00:26:33) Reporting procedures and mandatory requirements

(00:30:48) Trusting your gut and instincts

For more information on Care for Kids , visit www.careforkids.com.au

Follow @careforkidsau

For more information on Kristi McVee, visit www.kristimcvee.com

Follow @kristimcvee

Podcast produced by Posterboy Media.