Tools for Teen Boys aged 12-14 - August 2026

This workshop is a wonderful opportunity for boys to gain valuable knowledge and skills that will empower them as they navigate relationships and the growing understanding of their own bodies. The focus will be on laying a strong foundation for healthy emotional, mental, and relational development.

In this workshop, your son will gain tools to foster a healthy attitude toward his body, his masculinity, and to develop a positive mindset about his emerging maturity.

Please Note:

• This workshop is not focused on explicit discussions about sex but will provide important foundations for healthy emotional and relational skills in the future.

• The information will be delivered in a fun, age-appropriate, and gentle manner.

• The workshop will be structured around "practical tools" for your son to use (mindset, communication, emotional regulation).

• The workshop will be phone-free (phones will be collected and stored in a basket, and participants can check them during breaks if needed).

There will be three key parts to the workshop:

1. Mindset Tools – We will explore the impact of media on self-perception and build critical thinking skills, we will be focusing on the concept of the “man box” - this refers to a set of societal expectations and stereotypes about masculinity that pressure men to behave in certain ways in order to conform to traditional ideas of what it means to be a man.
   This is important because with increased exposure to social media, boys are often faced with distorted images of masculinity and unrealistic expectations. We’ll address how to maintain a healthy mindset amidst these pressures. And discuss ways to break free from the “man box” and to embrace authentic and healthy ways of expressing themselves.

2. Communication Tools – We will discuss healthy ways to express, and receive, "No" in challenging (non-sexual) situations with friends and family. This is important because it’s crucial to recognise when something doesn't feel right ,and to have the language and confidence to both communicate and be mindful of boundaries in a respectful and assertive way.

3. Embodiment Tools – We will learn about both male and female anatomy and discuss how biology and the nervous system influences our emotions. This is important because understanding how the body works and how to listen to its signals is empowering. This knowledge helps boys trust their instincts, manage emotions, and develop a sense of inner strength.

There will be an opportunity for anonymous Q&A at the end of the workshop. If any concerns arise, I will follow up with you in a reflection email sent to all parents.

Parent/carer evening

This is an optional but highly recommended evening for parents,

In the parent/carer evening I will briefly cover the material I will be presenting to the children during the workshop I will answer any of your questions, and I will share a stack of resources with you, including some of my collection of books that may be helpful for you and your child.

Natalie will email you to confirm the date and time and ask if you'd like to join

Important note on booking tickets : this is an under 18 program so tickets should be booked by a responsible caregiver on the attendees behalf

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.