The Modern Dad: Real Talk, Real Tools, Real Connection

Hosted by Playgroup NSW, featuring special guest Thomas Docking, CEO of Man With a Pram

Fatherhood is evolving, with dads taking on more active, emotionally engaged roles.

Join us to explore:

Changing expectations and roles of dads today
Balancing work, parenting, and personal identity
The unique role fathers play in child development through play
Navigating the emotional challenges of early parenthood
Tools and strategies for managing stress and overwhelm
How groups like Man With a Pram and Playgroup NSW foster connection
Tips for mums, professionals, and carers to better support and engage with dads

This session will dive into the shifting landscape of modern fatherhood, highlighting the vital contribution dads make in their children’s lives and the importance of community support.

This free webinar is open to all — mums, grandparents, professionals, and carers, offering practical insights for anyone supporting dads on their parenting journey.

Webinar details

Wednesday 3rd September 2025
7.00pm to 8.00pm
Online via Zoom
For: Parents, Caregivers, Grandparents, Educators, Professionals
FREE

Thomas Docking is a father, husband, and CEO of Dads Group, and the founder of Man With a Pram. Inspired by the arrival of his first child with his wife Kate in 2014, Thomas has spent nearly a decade designing and delivering programs that support fathers in the perinatal period. His initiatives connect dads through local and online communities, helping to reduce isolation, improve mental health, and strengthen family bonds. Partnering with Playgroup NSW, hospitals, governments, and universities, Thomas is driving a national movement to equip dads as an essential part of family well-being and children’s development.

About Man With A Pram

Man with a Pram brings fathers and families together on Father's Day for a walk and community event to combat isolation and raise funds for perinatal mental health.

25% of dads will experience perinatal anxiety or depression in the first six months of a child’s life.
That’s around 205 dads every day.
No dad should have to walk alone. We’d love you to join us this Father’s Day for Man With A Pram - a community walk to raise awareness and support for dads’ mental health.

Sign up today to change the lives of new dads around the nation - and have a great time with your friends and family while doing it. Sign up now.

Proudly Hosted by Playgroup NSW CEO Emily Caska and Executive Lead, Impact Jenny Kemp

Playgroup NSW is a not-for-profit organisation that helps connect families and children to people and services in the community to positively impact their quality of life.

For over 50 years, Playgroup NSW has delivered and linked families to, vital services such as parent support groups and playgroups for those experiencing vulnerability and diversity, and those who value community connections. We offer valuable volunteer opportunities and experiences through our community led programs, and we support our volunteers to create connections through play within their communities.

All Playgroup NSW programs are designed to help families navigate the challenges of parenting and build strong, resilient communities.

Please note that this webinar will be recorded and may be distributed. By participating, you consent to the possibility that your name or any questions you ask may be included in the recording. This recording will be made available after the event to all registered participants.