Wellbeing & Community Hub

Community Hub

Your child’s self-image or self-identity refers to their mental image of themselves, of who they are as individuals, socially and more globally. 

A sense of image or identity can be shaped by personal experiences, interaction with you and others, the local environment, and their own unique personality.

Self-image has a lot to do with self-esteem because how your child sees themselves is a big contributing factor to how they feel about themselves. 

Whether your child is young, or heading into their tween or teen years, making a conscious effort to be aware of how you engage with your child and the impact on their self-esteem and self-image is important. 

 Top Tips

1. Accept your child for who they are. Regardless of how different your child may be compared to you, it’s crucial to let them know you love and value them as they are.

2. Pay attention to and listen to your child. This tells children they are important and valued and that it is safe to express feelings and opinions.

3. Give them genuine compliments. Show them that you notice more than their appearance or their performance. Focus on a range of qualities – their positive choices, creativity, or their ability to act as a good friend.

Dad joke of the week

I told my son I saw a deer on the way to work this morning. He asked, "How do you know it was on its way to work..?"

Podcast: Empowering your child to be their authentic self

CEO Káti Gapaillard speaks with best-selling Children's Book Author and Content Creator - Scott Stuart. He shares his journey of how he empowers his son to show up authentically in this world. 

https://www2.thefatheringproject.org/e/942423/ld-to-be-their-authentic-self-/cl4qk/216283741?h=zaA8w2ga4LmFf13ZQOrNDKuGtxtHpl67ncCpVyq2cB8

Nominate a legend dad or father figure

Nominations for The Australian Fathering Awards 2023 are open - whether it's a sporting dad, an impactful dad or father figure in the community, or, a workplace you believe are paving the way in empowering fathers. Send your nominations over today.

https://www2.thefatheringproject.org/e/942423/nominate-/cl4qn/216283741?h=zaA8w2ga4LmFf13ZQOrNDKuGtxtHpl67ncCpVyq2cB8

The first 1 - 3 years and emotional development

Dads have a significant impact on a child's emotional development and growth in the first 1 - 3 years of a child's life. Read these six tips to support their growth.

https://www2.thefatheringproject.org/e/942423/pact-on-emotional-development-/cl4qr/216283741?h=zaA8w2ga4LmFf13ZQOrNDKuGtxtHpl67ncCpVyq2cB8

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.