Families in Geelong are being thrown a lifeline with a series of highly subsidised workshops designed to tackle the complex pressures of modern parenting. For just $20 per session, mums and dads can access expert-led guidance on issues ranging from digital device battles to managing childhood anxiety.
Affordable Support for Pressured Parents
The initiative, a collaboration between Kardinia Health and the Geelong Community Foundation, aims to make vital parenting education accessible to all. The workshops are part of the 'Parenting in the 21st Century' program, which recognises that today's caregivers face a unique set of challenges that previous generations did not.
Kardinia Health's child and adolescent psychologist, Dr. Bianca Kofoed, highlighted the growing need for this type of support. She pointed to the pervasive impact of technology, social media, and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic as key drivers of stress for both children and their parents.
The $20 fee is heavily discounted from the true cost of running the sessions, which is covered by the Geelong Community Foundation's grant funding. This strategic pricing removes a significant financial barrier for families seeking help.
Key Topics for Modern Families
The workshop series doesn't shy away from the tough topics. Sessions are carefully crafted to address the most common and pressing concerns voiced by local parents.
One major focus is managing screen time and digital device use, a daily battleground in many households. Another critical workshop is dedicated to understanding and supporting childhood anxiety, providing parents with practical tools to help their children cope.
Further sessions will cover:
- Effective strategies for setting boundaries and implementing positive behaviour management.
- Navigating the complex social dynamics and friendship issues children face at school and online.
- Building resilience and promoting positive mental wellbeing from a young age.
Dr. Kofoed emphasised that the goal is to move beyond simply identifying problems. "We want to equip parents with practical, evidence-based strategies they can apply at home immediately," she said.
Building a More Supported Community
The program represents a proactive approach to community health, aiming to support parents before families reach crisis point. By building parental confidence and competence, the initiative hopes to foster healthier, happier home environments, which in turn benefits the wider Geelong community.
The first workshop, 'Managing Screen Time,' is scheduled for May 18. Subsequent sessions will run throughout the year, allowing parents to choose the topics most relevant to their family's situation. All workshops will be held at Kardinia Health's premises, providing a comfortable and professional setting.
This local response to a national issue underscores a growing recognition that parenting support is a vital community service. For Geelong families feeling overwhelmed by the demands of modern life, these affordable workshops offer a valuable source of connection, education, and practical hope.
