Kids still struggling at school due to irregular home environments

The Federal Education Minister has urged parents to implement stability and sound structures at home when preparing their children for school.

A recent report suggested that one in five children displayed vulnerability when starting school and would face enormous challenges as parents simply weren’t getting the message.

Senator Simon Birmingham, also the Federal Education Minister, said the trend was not necessarily due to children starting school at a younger age.

‘There are still some real challenges around physical health and well being, social engagement,’ he said. ‘That really comes down to the home environment.’

Senator Birmingham said that around 20% of children struggled at school due to irregular meal times, not sleeping enough, and an unstable environment at home.

‘Children do need stability in their lives…they need sound structures to help them.’

Simon Birmingham, Federal Education Minister talks to Tom Elliott