Dads Tuning Into Kids - Expression of Interest

A FREE seven week workshop with Meerilinga for Dads and those who identify as Dads

Limited numbers in this supportive workshop

Building Stronger Connections with Your Child

Dads Tuning in to Kids is an evidence-based parenting program designed specifically for fathers and father figures. Developed by researchers at the University of Melbourne, the program helps dads better understand children’s emotions and respond in ways that support strong relationships and healthy emotional development.

At Meerilinga, this workshop supports fathers to build practical skills for recognising, understanding and responding to their child’s feelings. The program focuses on emotion coaching—helping children learn to understand and manage their emotions while strengthening the parent–child relationship.

By the end of the workshop, you will be able to

• Respond more confidently when your child experiences big emotions

• Strengthen your relationship and connection with your child

• Support your child to understand and manage their feelings

• Feel more confident in your role as a parent

Together we will explore

• How children’s emotions influence their behaviour

• Practical ways fathers can respond to children’s big feelings

• The role of emotion coaching in supporting children’s resilience and wellbeing

• Strategies to guide behaviour while staying connected

• How fathers can support children to develop emotional intelligence

• Ways to handle challenging parenting moments with greater confidence

During the workshop you will

• Practice emotion coaching skills with your child between sessions

• Reflect on your parenting experiences in a supportive group environment

• Share strategies, challenges and successes with other fathers

• Build practical approaches that work in your family

Workshop structure

This workshop runs over seven sessions facilitated by a trained Dads Tuning in to Kids practitioner. Each session introduces practical ideas and strategies that build on one another.

Session 1
Introduction to Dads Tuning in to Kids and understanding children’s emotions

Session 2
Children’s emotional development and why emotions matter

Session 3
Emotion coaching: helping children understand and manage feelings

Session 4
Responding to children’s anger and strong emotions

Session 5
Supporting children through fears, worries and sadness

Session 6
Guiding behaviour while staying emotionally connected

Session 7
Strengthening father–child relationships and moving forward

What participants receive

• Seven facilitated group sessions

• Practical parenting resources and handouts

• Opportunities to reflect, share and practice new approaches

• A supportive environment with other fathers and carers

We ask that you commit to:

• Attending all seven facilitated group sessions

• Trying out the ideas and strategies at home between sessions

• Joining the call each week from a quiet, private place without children in attendance

• Joining the call with audio and video on