Online Parent Talk: Raising Boys in 2026: Masculinity, connection and emotional wellbeing

Today's boys are growing up in a world filled with competing messages about what it means to "be a man." Between social media, influencers, peer pressure, p*rnography, and cultural expectations, many parents are wondering how to support their sons to grow into respectful, emotionally aware, and connected young men.

This engaging and thought-provoking online session explores the pressures boys face today and how parents can help them develop the skills, confidence, and self-awareness they need to thrive.

Together we'll explore:

• The messages boys are receiving about masculinity from social media, influencers, p*rnography, sport, and popular culture

• The difference between harmful stereotypes and healthy, authentic expressions of masculinity

• Supporting boys to identify, express, and navigate emotions with confidence

• Helping your sons to develop respectful communication, empathy, and healthy relationship skills

• Practical ways to stay connected with your son through the tween and teen years, even when conversations become more challenging

Parents will leave with:

• A deeper understanding of the unique pressures facing boys today

• Practical tools for fostering open communication and emotional literacy

• Greater confidence discussing relationships, consent, media influences, and masculinity

• Strategies to support their sons in becoming respectful, resilient, and emotionally connected young men

Because boys deserve more than narrow definitions of masculinity. They deserve the opportunity to develop self-awareness, strong relationships, emotional skills, and a sense of identity that feels authentic to who they are.

This session is ideal for parents and carers of boys aged 12 and above and provides a foundation for ongoing conversations about relationships, respect, consent, media literacy, and emotional wellbeing.

About Your Host

Natalie Stokell is an educator, mum of two, and advocate for positive, inclusive sex education. She foundedTell Your Daughters to address the gaps she saw in school-based sex ed and now delivers engaging, age-appropriate workshops for tweens, teens, and their parents. With a Master’s in Psychology and a calm, compassionate presence, Natalie combines evidence-based knowledge with deep empathy to support young people as they navigate consent, relationships, and online life. She also works with Women’s Health and Equality Queensland, developing health promotion initiatives focused on mental health, respectful relationships, and gender equality.

Key Info

• Wednesday 22nd July 7:30 - 8pm

• Online format - receive your Zoom link once you have booked

• Free to join

• Option to sign your child up for the in-person  12-14yo Teen Boy Workshop with Natalie on Wed 5th Aug : BOOK/FIND OUT MORE HERE

How We Use Your Booking Information:
Your personal information is used to:
·         Register the attendee for the program and communicate program-related updates.
·         Understand participant demographics to improve program delivery.
·         Contact you for feedback and evaluation purposes after the program concludes.

Some of the information collected (such as preferred pronouns) is considered sensitive and is voluntary. It will be used to help ensure our programs are inclusive and meet the needs of our community.

Council will take all reasonable and appropriate steps to protect the privacy of individuals as required by the Queensland Information Privacy Act 2009 and associated Information Privacy Principles (IPPs) contained in that Act.