Fathers across the Hunter will soon have access to a dedicated free parenting program this year.
Family Support Newcastle, in partnership with Thou-Walla Family Centre, is coordinating the Understanding Dads group.
It’s designed to help men with a fathering role strengthen their relationships with their children.
Family Support Newcastle men’s and family worker Roger Curie said the group was created to support dads navigating the challenges of parenting.
“Often parents can feel confused or overwhelmed,” he explained.
“Sometimes we don’t fully understand why children behave the way they do… and we may react in ways we later regret.
“This group helps dads understand child development, behaviour and effective strategies for responding.”
Mr Currie, who is a dad of four and a grandfather of six, admitted one of the key goals of the program was to challenge outdated views about discipline.
“A lot of dads have been brought up thinking a smack is the solution,” he said.
“We show that certain punishment often makes problems worse.
“Understanding why children behave the way they do is far more effective and strengthens the parent-child relationship.”
The initiative boasts four weekly sessions and covers understanding your brain and your child’s brain, mindfulness, self-care, emotional intelligence and self-regulation.
“Kids are born with all the emotions but none of the skills to deal with them,” Mr Currie said.
Dads need to look beyond what is often labelled as “misbehaviour” and instead understand what may be driving a child’s actions.
“Behaviour is often just the tip of the iceberg,” Mr Currie told the Newcastle Weekly.
“Sometimes what looks like misbehaving is a child who is tired, hungry, overwhelmed or releasing stress.
“Our program helps dads build new skills while teaching children strategies to manage their emotions and behaviours.”
Parenting could be isolating, too, Mr Currie explained.
“Spending time with other dads helps men realise they’re not alone,” he said.
“The group helps them build confidence in their parenting, which can have a positive impact on relationships at home.”
For those wanting to get involved, the program includes a supervised activity group for children and afternoon tea.
The four-week schedule runs on Tuesdays, 5pm to 6.30pm, starting 10 March, at Thou-Walla Family Centre in Raymond Terrace.
Even if you’re unsure about joining, the team encourages you to call and have a chat.
“There’s no judgment,” Mr Currie said.
“We’ve all had parenting challenges and we bring our own experience to support other dads.”
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