A series of new, free state-wide parenting workshops is helping hundreds of South Australian mums and dads better connect with their children.
Since the Families Growing Together workshops launched in early 2020, more than 3000 families have been supported by a team of parenting experts. This year, almost 2000 South Australians have participated in 241 workshops – and there is capacity for more families to take part.
Families Growing Together is part of the Marshall Liberal Government’s new child and family support system – South Australia’s strongest-ever plan to support our most vulnerable children and families.
Minister for Human Services Michelle Lensink urged mums and dads who want support to sign up for the free workshops.
“Our new Families Growing Together workshops are empowering South Australian families with the knowledge and skills they need to connect and grow together,” said Minister Lensink.
“From screen time to bedtime, and everything in between, the program is helping parents with a wide range of issues including cyber safety, brain development, play skills and parenting through to COVID-19.
“We recognise how important family wellbeing and functioning is for children to thrive and reach their full potential, which is why these workshops have been incredibly popular right across the state.”
The workshops are relaxed, informal and a safe space for parents and caregivers to learn latest information through videos, activities and discussions in small groups, informed by latest research.
They specifically target parents with children aged two-to-12 and parents with teenagers, but workshops are also being delivered to specific groups including multicultural families, male caregivers, and parents of children with disability.
After experiencing trauma, including family violence, Paralowie mother Mary-Jane attended a Families Growing Together workshop earlier this year to learn strategies to better connect with her children aged 5 and 8.
“It affected my kids in plenty of ways. Their behaviour, their milestones, their emotions, their education…I struggled to be around my children,” said Mary-Jane.
“The workshops have taught me about brain development and how to help support and grow our little people’s minds to be the best strong “them” that they can be.
“Our relationship is now built on trust and they can share their feelings and emotions with me, and their behaviour is much more settled. Overall, our relationship is a lot calmer.”
To find the nearest Families Growing Together workshop near you, visit www.dhs.sa.gov.au/families-growing-together or phone the Families Growing Together team on 1300 016 008.
To find support and connect with information related to the safety or wellbeing of a child, young person or family, visit the new ASK website https://adultssupportingkids.com.au/
