June 2007

Maroondah first for fathers

Fathers in the City of Maroondah now have an informal, supported playgroup where they can spend time with their children.

The fortnightly Saturday morning group meets at the new Eastern Access Community Health (EACH) Child Centre in East Ringwood, giving fathers the chance to play with their children and meet other dads.

‘This group started to meet an often overlooked need in the community,’ said EACH Child and Family Services program manager Sacha Miezis.

‘The need is growing.’

The group provides a safe, non-judgmental place for fathers to connect with their kids.

‘It really helps me connect with my son, which is ever so hard to do in trying times,’ said one dad.

Often, when relationships broke down, fathers did not get a chance to spend a great deal of time with their kids, he said.

‘The group gives these fathers that opportunity. What’s more, it’s free.’

Other dads said it was important fathers took an active role in child raising.

The playgroup provides a space for dads and children to read stories together, play games, dig in the sandpit or play ball games.

The group is co-ordinated by three male staff from EACH.

It is informal and allows for dads to come and go according to their circumstances.

The staff are also keen to organise low-cost outings.

The EACH Child Centre is at the back of 75 Patterson Street, East Ringwood.

The group runs fortnightly during school terms from 9.30 a.m. until midday.

•             For more information contact Sacha, Alistair or Jarrod on 9837 3999.