As your kids become teenagers, setting boundaries gets trickier. Parenting teens means finding the right balance: enough guidance and rules for healthy choices, while allowing them to explore and trust their own judgement.

Trusting your child is a powerful motivator for them to prove themselves.

Mistakes are part of learning, so sometimes you'll need to step in for their safety. They should know you're there to support them, even as they take the reins.

Every teen is different—some need more independence, others need more guidance. You'll know how ready they are to make decisions and how much support they require.

So, dads, strike that balance, trust them, and let them shine!

Top Tips

1. Praise their efforts. When your teenager displays good self-management skills let them know you have noticed and are proud of them.

2. Be clear and consistent. Teenagers gain strength and self-respect from parents who are clear and consistent in their expectations and willing to discuss reasons for their decision.

3. Step in if you need to. You can show respect for your teenager’s feelings and opinions but should reserve the right to limit some of their actions if you feel they may be at risk.

Dad joke of the week

I'm reading a book about anti gravity...it's impossible to put down!

The Classic Tour wrap up

The Classic Tour was a weekend to connect with like-minded people, have some fun (albeit in freezing conditions!) and raise funds for dads and kids doing it tough in the community. Check out how close we are to our fundraising goal...we are so close. Can you help us make it over the finish line?

https://www2.thefatheringproject.org/e/942423/2023-05-23/cvlmj/254981664?h=LmDYZ9PAX_tzIFL5j-yNnYiBQ4144V-z8-A-aU-YHGk

AFA Insurance sponsors The Australian Fathering Awards

We are proud to announce underwriting agency AFA Insurance are sponsoring this year's awards! Nominations are still open - if you know a legend of a dad or father figure - give them the props they deserve and nominate today.

https://www2.thefatheringproject.org/e/942423/2023-05-23/cvlmm/254981664?h=LmDYZ9PAX_tzIFL5j-yNnYiBQ4144V-z8-A-aU-YHGk

Eight must-do co-parenting tips

Separation can be one of the toughest life choices, especially when kids are involved. Navigating this can be challenging. Try some of these tips.

https://www2.thefatheringproject.org/e/942423/-to-be-a-boss-at-co-parenting-/cvlmq/254981664?h=LmDYZ9PAX_tzIFL5j-yNnYiBQ4144V-z8-A-aU-YHGk

Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre

Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre are seeking enthusiastic members of the Community to join our Committee of Management (CoM). Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre are a not-for-profit community-managed that provides pathways for those who are pursuing a career, change of job, or going on to further their education. The Committee meets once a month (twice on rare occasions) for about 2 to 3 hours to assist the Center Manager in the smooth running of the organisation. CoM are responsible for ensuring that all decisions are taken in the best interests of the organisation and that their role is carried out effectively. As a member, you are performing a valuable service to the local community, and to the wider Victorian community.

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