In this free 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.

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.

Mindful Masculinity: Media Myths and Pressures
Body Autonomy: Consent and Communication
Empowered Anatomy: Knowledge and Self Connection

Please note:

This workshop is those identifying as sons aged 12-14 years.
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:

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.
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.
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.

(The workshop focuses on male born bodies)

Parent/caregiver pre-workshop evening - Wednesday, 18 March 6pm-7pm

In the parent/caregiver evening Natalie briefly covers the material to be presented to the children during the workshop. She will answer any of your questions, and share a stack of resources with you, including some of her collection of books that may be helpful for you and your child.

Not only is it so important (life changingly important) to teach our kids the things they need to know BEFORE they need to know them, but also we need to give them opportunities to practice the tools. It is Natalie's intention that these workshops are a safe and fun space to practice and become familiar with the words and tools they can use when and if they need to.

About the Presenter

Natalie Stockell is an educator, mum of two, and advocate for positive, inclusive sex education. She founded Tell 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.

Alongside her work with Tell Your Daughters, Natalie works with Women’s Health and Equality Queensland (WHEQ), where she co-designs and facilitates sex education workshops and resources for women, girls, and gender-diverse people. Her work at WHEQ also spans broader health promotion initiatives focused on mental health, respectful relationships, and gender equality.

What to tell your Son

This isn't specifically sex ed, and telling any tween/teen they are going to a sex ed workshop is going to feel awkward for them. So simply telling your child they are going to a "Tools for teens" workshop is enough. If they want more information it is up to you what you tell them, you could say there will be some talk about the messages from the media, and also how to deal with sticky conversations with your friends, that type of thing. They might feel more comfortable going with a friend so please let any other parent/caregiver of your son’s friends know about this workshop date.

Natalie's primary goals for the workshop are that the boys have fun, and they feel comfortable with her and the content. Her secondary goals are that they leave feeling like their individuality matters, that the "man box" is optional, and they know all bodies are unique and diverse.

Waiting List

If tickets are 'sold out', please join the waiting list. It is automated so that if someone has to cancel, then the person next on the waiting list will be offered the place. Also, it helps Community House to gauge the interest in community for this type of offering.

Questions?

If you have any questions please contact Susan, Coordinator Community Development at Pomona & District Community House on 07 5485 2427 or admin@pomonacommunityhouse.org.au.

Thanks to our Funders

Neighbourhood Centres Qld - Queensland Women and Girls’ Health Promotion Community Seed Funding.

Neighbourhood Centres Qld is the peak body for Neighbourhood Centres in Queensland. Our sector represents the largest community-led infrastructure in Qld.

Contact the host of Tools for Tweens & Teens 12-14 yrs - Tell your sons - 21 March