The Parenthood Newsletter August 2024

Are you a parent of young kids living outside a capital city? Or, do you know any parents in that boat? If so we really, like really, want to hear from you - and them! All of you. All of them. Find out in our latest newsletter.

Hello friends!

Are you a parent of young kids living outside a capital city? Or, do you know any parents in that boat? If so we really, like really, want to hear from you - and them! All of you. All of them.

We want to hear from ALL parents of young children in regional, rural and remote areas in Australia.  

In these parts daycare, preschool, family daycare - any form of early education and care - can be excruciating to access. And it isn’t an isolated issue.

Childcare inaccessibility has profound flow-on effects for whole regions, which we will be highlighting in a new report we're working on to be shared in early September.

We have an inkling that one flow-on effect for families is increased financial pressure - and we are using a poll to confirm our suspicion.

If you are a regional, rural or remote parent or carer of young children, please take our quick poll. It will only take 34 seconds.

The poll is only two questions, and takes on average 34 seconds to complete. We’re almost at 700 responses, but want to hit 1000 so no one can deny this issue is serious, and change was needed yesterday.

Please take the 30-second poll now.

Find out about what else we’ve been working on below.

Thanks heaps!

Georgie Dent
CEO, The Parenthood

 

ARE YOU A REGIONAL, RURAL OR REMOTE PARENT?

Early childhood education can be incredibly challenging to access in the regions, and we need to know what impact this has on you.

This September, we'll release a comprehensive report on the repercussions of inaccessible regional, rural and remote early childhood education and care. We need your help: please take our quick, 2-question poll to share the impact this has on you.

Take the poll
 

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION REFORM CRUCIAL TO PARENTS’ VOTES

New research from Thrive by Five, the ‘Early Learning Monitor’, reveals that improving the early learning system is a top priority for parents, ranking third behind the cost of living and healthcare. The research found that 70% of Australians believe cheaper early learning would benefit the economy. Georgie Dent, CEO of The Parenthood, stated that early childhood education reform will significantly impact parents’ voting choices in the upcoming federal election.

Our media release
 

STRONG IN CULTURE - STRONGER TOGETHER

On 4 August, communities across Australia celebrated National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children's Day. This year's theme, “Strong in Culture, Stronger Together,” emphasised the importance of cultural connection for children’s resilience and identity.

Many events and activities took place, highlighting the unique strengths and cultural heritage of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children.

For more information click here
 

UNDERPAID AND OVERWORKED: EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATORS DESERVE BETTER!

Early childhood educators face severe underpayment and lack of recognition, leading to a crisis. A recent poll by the United Workers Union highlights significant staff turnover, with 97% of centres losing educators in the past year, and 62% of educators planning to leave the sector within three years. Parents report negative impacts on care quality due to shortages.

Georgie Dent, CEO of The Parenthood, emphasises the urgent need to improve pay and working conditions to retain educators and ensure quality care for children. Investing in educators is essential for the future of our children and society.

Read more
 

EARLY LEARNING MATTERS WEEK 2024

From 5 to 9 August, join us in celebrating the vital role of early learning in children's development and well-being. Organised by Early Childhood Australia, this event unites educators, parents, caregivers, and community leaders nationwide. Early Learning Matters Week aims to raise awareness about the importance of quality early childhood education, laying the foundation for future success. Be part of this nationwide movement and advocate for high-quality early learning every day of the year.

Find out more
 

MAN WITH A PRAM

The Parenthood proudly supports this year's Man with a Pram campaign, which raise awareness for perinatal mental health for fathers and families. Man with a Pram symbolises dads walking with their children in prams to highlight the importance of mental health and general support for new parents. You can support the campaign by spreading the word on social media, joining an existing walk, or hosting your own Man with a Pram event.

Take a look here!
 

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