App to help with back-to-school rush

Parents bracing for a back-to-school ordeal have been offered a helping hand in the form of a free app.

The Learning Potential app has more than 160 hints and ideas for parents, ranging from getting children excited to starting school to coping with cyberbullying.

"Beyond the essentials of sorting out books, bags and school uniforms, a new school year is a great time for parents to engage in their children's education, and Learning Potential can help with a range of useful information, tips and advice", Education Minister Simon Birmingham said.

The app is a free offering from the federal government and is available for download on Android and Apple devices, with more information available at www.learningpotential.gov.au.