Let’s change the culture of fatherhood and male role modelling for kids for the better – starting with you!
Whether you’re a dad, a step-dad, an uncle, big brother, cousin or mentor this group is all about providing father figures with the connections, friendships, and supports to navigate both the rewarding and challenging world of parenting for men.
There is no agenda and definitely no judgment in this group, the only thing you need to become part of this group is yourself (as either a dad or male role model) and the kid/s you’re supporting.
You’re not actually that different from any other dads… in a good way!
The average dad is overwhelmed, overworked, and feels the pressure to glue the family together, all this at a time when there is a drastic shift in day-to-day life, sleeping patterns, and a whole lot more responsibility too.
It’s pretty common to feel one or more of these:
- You’re trying to figure out your new role… it’s a tough gig!
- You’re constantly wondering if your parenting skills are up to scratch.
- The performance levels you used to achieve at work just aren’t the same anymore.
- All of your mates are catching up regularly and you just can’t seem to find the time.
- Your mind is telling you that you’re a failure… all the time.
- You really want to be strong for everyone else.
The early (or sometimes even later) stages of fatherhood are a time of acute stress and loneliness for many dads, but we also know that it’s often really hard to talk about. That’s where we come in!
Did you know that lots of male parents report feeling overwhelmed and isolated?
The Australian Men’s Mental Health Forum reports that one in 10 dads experience symptoms of Paternal Postpartum Depressions, while 17% report symptoms and anxiety which ultimately puts them at a much higher risk of dying by suicide.
Why are we telling you this? Well, because it means that any feelings that you’re having are mirrored by other fathers just like you and are far more common than you think – after all, being a parent is the toughest job you’ll ever take on.
Our program aims to remove the stigma and sometimes shame that dad’s feel when it comes to negative feelings or difficulties they’re having taking on a parenting role by opening up a conversation with other dads and giving men a safe space to connect with their kids in a fun and supportive environment.
Our early intervention approach provides new fathers with positive social relationships and easier pathways to health services when they need them – basically, we’re here for you in any situation.
So, how does the group work? Hint: you’re always in for a good time!
The group meets each Saturday morning in the northern suburbs of Adelaide, often in a community space or playground, and the sessions are filled with fun and engaging activities like:
- Construction activities using pallets to make things like spice racks, vertical gardens, and bird houses
- Arts and crafts
- Mini Olympics
- Movie days
- Dress up days
- Science experiments
The peer-to-peer approach of this group creates an effective framework to support male role models and dads to have a great community network around them, making them feel supported and confident when it comes to taking on a parenting role.
Sessions are led by a Novita social worker, who supports the group consistently throughout the term of activities on each Saturday.
Join our male role model and dad’s group!
Our male role model and dad’s group meets each Saturday morning at a number of locations around the Salisbury North/Parafield Gardens area and our participants have the opportunity to socialise, make friends and take part in plenty of different activities.
If this sounds like the opportunity you’re looking for to better connect with your kids then give us a call on 1300 668 482, email us at [email protected] or you can complete an enquiry form for COPE programs and we will be in touch with further information.