FAQs

How do I sign up?

Click on the 'Register' button below.

How much does it cost?

The Healthy Youngsters Healthy Dads program is FREE.  

When can I attend a Healthy Youngsters Healthy Dads program?

Unfortunately registrations for our Term 4, 2020 programs are now closed.  Please register your interest for future programs on the 'Register' button below and we will update you once future program dates/locations are finalised.

How long does the program go for?

There are 8 x 75 minute sessions for dads and youngster together that run on a Saturday morning in the school Term 4.  Dads separately attend two 2-hour 'Dads Only' information sessions on a Thursday evening. 

Can I do the program with multiple youngsters?

We recommend dads attend with only one youngster at a time. The program is designed for 1-on-1 interaction between dads and youngsters, ensuring they can both concentrate and engage in the education and practical activities and receive the most benefit from the program. 

We have a few options to accommodate multiple youngsters:

  • Option 1: Dad could participate in back-to-back sessions on a weekend, having a different youngster attend each session. 
  • Option 2: Another father figure (e.g. Grandfather/Uncle) could participate with one of the youngsters in the same session as Dad and the other youngster.
  • Option 3: The program will run again in the future so you could decide to attend with one youngster initially and then sign up the following year with the other youngster. 

How old does my youngster need to be to participate? 

Your youngster must be between 3 and 5 years and not currently attending primary school.

Can my family come along to the sessions?

Unfortunately the program is only for the dad and registered youngster to attend. However, all family members are encouraged to read through the program resources to gain an understanding of what is being learnt each week and how to best support dads and youngsters to complete their home tasks.

Can I still do the program if I don’t participate in regular physical activity?

Absolutely, the program caters for all fitness levels and abilities.  We would love to have you involved.

Can I do the program more than once?

Yes, there is no limit to how many programs you attend, however preference will be given to new families. 

Do I need to attend all sessions?

Each session covers a different topic. To maximise the positive impact of the program we recommend attendance to all sessions.  

What if it's raining on the day of my session?

We always have a wet weather option at the program location to ensure we can complete the session in a safe environment. 

Why dads?

Fathers have an important influence on children’s health and wellbeing, however, they are significantly underrepresented in health promotion programs targeting parents. A recent review of all parenting programs delivered internationally showed that only 6% of participants were fathers. Emerging research has also shown that children may independently and uniquely benefit from positive male involvement. 

Can my youngster still participate if they don't have a Dad in their life or available?

Absolutely, we welcome their attendance with a significant male figure in their life. This might be a step-father, grandfather, uncle, older brother or trusted family friend.

The program is designed to educate and motivate male role models as the agent for changing a childs' physical activity levels, sport skills and nutritional intake. Unfortunately, we are unable to accept youngsters attending the program with their mothers. 

What about mothers?

Parent-child programs have predominantly targeted and engaged mothers. When programs are open to both parents, very few dads will sign up. Healthy Youngsters is designed to specifically engage fathers or father figures only so that they are more likely to be involved.

Mums/partners are also encouraged to engage with the program home tasks, have discussion with their partner and youngster and are welcome to complete home activities with any of their other children. 

Do you have any other programs for older children?

Yes, Daughters and Dads Active and Empowered engages fathers and their primary school aged daughters to improve family physical activity, sport skills and social-emotional wellbeing.  This program is currently available in the Newcastle region until late 2021, please see the website for details on registration. 

We are looking for dads and their youngsters

Are you a dad who wants to spend quality time with your child participating in fun physical activities, whilst learning how to improve their sport skills, health and wellbeing…along with your own?

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