Childhood Matters by Bower Education

Childhood Matters by Bower Education

Welcome to Bower Education's Childhood Matters podcast, presented by hosts Jane Parolin, Sam Payze, and Chelsea Oliver as they delve into the complexities of childcare and child development—covering all the topics that matter to you as a parent. At Childhood Matters, we provide you with the essential tools for parenting, celebrating the wonderful surprises and joys that children bring into our lives.

Episodes

December 9, 2025 35 mins

In this episode, “A Deeper Understanding of Play,” we sit down with renowned play consultant Marc Armitage to explore what play really means for children’s development and well-being.

Marc shares powerful insights from decades of observing children at play what drives it, why it matters, and how it shapes emotional resilience, creativity, and social connection. Together, we discuss the growing tension between free play and screen ti...

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In this episode of Childhood Matters, we sit down with powerhouse mums Georgie and Alex, the inspiring duo behind Bubish Fashion label. The girls open up about their real experiences of returning to work as new mums, the juggle, the identity shifts, and the unexpected moments in between. They share honest reflections on navigating the many hats motherhood brings, while running a thriving fashion label, and offer practical tips for ...

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In this episode we explore one of the most important topics for parents and caregivers: the early signs of autism in children and how to know when it may be time to seek a formal diagnosis.

Our guest from Autism SA discuss what early developmental differences can look like—from communication delays and limited social engagement to sensory sensitivities and repetitive behaviours, while emphasising that every child develops at their o...

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In this inspiring episode of Childhood Matters, we are joined by the wonderful team behind The Dreamweavers Collective, a creative team who are dedicated to nurturing children’s emotional wellbeing through storytelling. Together, we explore how books can open up gentle yet powerful conversations around mental health, resilience, and self-expression within families.

The Dreamweavers Collective share the heart and vision behind their ...

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October 29, 2025 13 mins

Choosing the right childcare centre can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. In this episode, we break down what families should really be looking for when touring childcare centres and the key questions to ask along the way.

From daily routines, communication and centre philosophy, we cover the essentials that can help you feel informed and confident in your choice.

We'll also explore how to tell if a centre is th...

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In this important episode, we’re addressing a topic that’s at the forefront of every parent and educator’s mind, child safety and protection in early learning settings.

With rising concerns in the media and community, we want to offer clarity and reassurance by sharing the practical steps we take every day to keep children safe, supported, and protected in our care. From child protection policies and staff training to creating safe,...

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October 16, 2025 23 mins

In this lighthearted chat with my good friend Ryan Bugress, we dive into one of the great universal parenting challenges, getting children to sleep. We share stories, laugh about the ridiculous lengths parents will go to for just a few extra minutes of quiet, and talk about the ever-changing sleep needs of little ones. From bedtime negotiations, to the strange “rituals” that somehow work, we explore how every stage brings something...

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Why do toddlers bite, and what are they really trying to say? In this episode, we’re joined by Georgia, a speech pathologist from Sunny Days Speech, to unpack the biting phase and what it reveals about early communication, emotional regulation, and toddler development. Whether your little one is going through it or you just want to be prepared, Georgia shares practical insights and strategies to help parents respond with understand...

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In Season 3 of Childhood Matters, we're diving deeper into the heart of early childhood and we’re bringing new voices with us. This season, we welcome a range of guest speakers and allied health professionals to help parents, caregivers, and loved ones better understand the early years of a child’s life.

Together, we’ll explore the topics that matter to everyone. From child development and behavior, to emotional wellbeing, play...

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In this episode, we’re joined by Dino from Occupational Therapy for Children (OTFC) to explore what occupational therapy is and how it supports children’s development in the early years. Dino shares practical insights on when families might consider seeing an OT, what the therapy process involves, and how parents and caregivers can actively support their child’s progress. Whether you're new to OT or looking to learn more, this...

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In this heartfelt and honest chat, Chelsea sits down with good friend Burgo to explore what parenting looks like from a father's perspective. From the joys and challenges to the evolving role of modern dads, Burgo shares his personal experiences, reflections, and the lessons he’s learned along the way.

We talk about showing up with presence, breaking down traditional expectations, and the importance of connection, vulnerability...

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Meg has extensive qualifications, including a Bachelor of Nursing, Graduate Diplomas in Neonatal Care and Clinical Teaching, and is a certified Bayley Scales Assessor. She’s a clinical researcher, published author, and expert in child development.

With a career spanning London, Melbourne, and Adelaide, Meg now runs Moments to Milestones, providing tailored support to families in understanding and tracking their child's developm...

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In this episode we speak to  Stephanie Loielo  from the Village Around Me about parent separation

 


The Village Around Me

Stephanie  Loielo

Founding Director & Clinical Psychologist

https://www.thevillagearoundme.com.au/

https://www.instagram.com/thevillagearoundme/


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We acknowledge this land that we meet on today is the traditional lands for the Kaurna people and that we respect their spiritual rela...

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In this episode we speak to  Stephanie Loielo  from the Village Around Me about  parent and  infant attachment.

 


The Village Around Me

Stephanie  Loielo

Founding Director & Clinical Psychologist

https://www.thevillagearoundme.com.au/

https://www.instagram.com/thevillagearoundme/

Send us a text

We acknowledge this land that we meet on today is the traditional lands for the Kaurna people and that we respect their spiri...

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In this episode, we're joined by George Georgievski – the creative mind behind School Lunch Box. A proud dad of two daughters and husband to a beautiful wife, George is passionate about food, parenting, and helping families give their kids the best start in life. Since launching his online platform in 2017, he's built a vibrant community through fun recipes, clever parenting hacks, and 4 incredible recipe books. Tune in f...

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In this powerful episode, we’re joined by Nikki, a former paramedic and co-founder of a life-changing baby first aid course. Nikki shares the heartbreaking moments she experienced on the job—situations where simple first aid knowledge could have saved lives or prevented emergency callouts.

Together with her sister Rach, Nikki turned that experience into a mission: to educate and empower parents and caregivers with the skills and con...

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Welcome back to a brand new season of Childhood Matters  podcast!
After the incredible response to our first season, we’re thrilled to return with a fresh lineup of inspiring guests and insightful episodes. A heartfelt thank you to all our listeners for your support, kind messages, and encouragement—it’s meant the world to us.

with gratitude,

Chelsea, Jane and Sam

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We acknowledge this land that we meet on...

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December 27, 2024 10 mins

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We acknowledge this land that we meet on today is the traditional lands for the Kaurna people and that we respect their spiritual relationship with their country.We also acknowledge the Kaurna people as the custodians of the Adelaide region and that their cultural and heritage beliefs are still as important to the living Kaurna people today.We also pay respects to the cultural authority of Aboriginal peop...

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Join us as we talk to Feeding Therapist  Emily Lively and dive into the importance of family nutrition and how to make mealtimes a joyful experience for everyone. We’ll share fun ideas for engaging kids in the kitchen, creating family traditions around mealtime, and fostering healthy eating habits that last a lifetime. Whether you're a seasoned parent or just starting your family journey, you'll leave with inspiration and...

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In this episode, we delve into the magical world of music and nursery rhymes and their crucial role in early childhood development with Peter Coombe one of Australia's best known and most loved children's songwriters.

Join us as we explore how singing to young children fosters language skills, emotional connections, and cognitive growth. Peter shares tips for incorporating music into daily routines and discusses ...

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