You’re Kidding Me workshops build parenting skills
Published on 06 April 2022
Easing COVID-induced anxiety in kids, building language skills with music before birth, and moving to a blissful yoga session promoting mindfulness – these are some of the workshops forming part of Lake Macquarie City Council’s annual You’re Kidding Me program.
Lake Macquarie City Council Manager Community Partnerships Andrew Bryant encouraged new and expectant parents to attend the series of nine workshops, kicking off from Wednesday 27 April.
“This is all about working with families and connecting them to important health, education and family services that inform and inspire parents and children under five years old,” Mr Bryant said.
“We’re really excited to launch a highly engaging program this year, with the vast majority of workshops held in-person, which is a welcome change from last year where they were all online.”
Community Activities Lake Macquarie Child, Youth & Family Case Workers Rochelle Mellows and Emma Cook from will lead a discussion on how to support kids experiencing worry and anxiety on Monday 2 May.
“The pandemic has triggered a sense of uncertainty and concern, which has impacted children’s sense of safety and security,” Ms Mellows said.
“We will discuss how parents can recognise anxiety in children and give some ideas and tips to help children manage worry,” Ms Cook said.
Infant chiropractic specialist Felicity Cook will address the importance of ‘tummy time’ on Friday 29 April, while sleep guru Natalie Ebrill will share tips and tricks on how to make babies the best sleepers they can be on Friday 6 May.
Council’s Community Planner Children and Families Erin Peterson said other workshops will discuss family stress and relationships, speech development and mindfulness.
“We have a team of highly trained experts on board, including a nutritionist and speech and occupational therapists,” Ms Peterson said.
“I’m encouraging families to register and take advantage of these informative and free workshops.”
The workshops will be held in the lead up to Council’s ‘You’re Kidding Me’ expo, which is being held on Friday 20 May.
Go to lakemac.com.au for bookings and more information.