Group connections offer powerful validation, shared learning, and a sense of community.
Our structured group programs combine practical parenting education with interactive peer support, led by experienced family support workers and group facilitators.
Groups operate throughout the school term at our Waratah centre, Raymond Terrace and Blackbutt Reserve, helping parents build practical skills, understand child development, and strengthen family relationships.
Current group programs and schedules
Bringing up great kids
A practical, reflective program designed to help parents build positive, nurturing relationships with their children, manage parenting stress, and improve daily household communication.
Dates: Oct 30 – Dec 4
When: Fridays 10am – 12pm
Where: Place of Friends, Woodberry Public School, Wonnarua Country
Turning into teens
Dates: 26 Oct – 30 Nov
When: Mondays 6-8pm
Where: Headspace Newcastle, 582 Hunter St, Newcastle West, Awabakal Country
1-2-3 Magic and emotion coaching
Learn to understand your child’s development, behaviour and how to manage their emotions.
Dates: 11 Nov & 18 Nov
When: Wednesdays 10am – 12:30pm
Where: Waratah family centre
Playtime group
Dates: Every Thursday in school term
When: 9:15-11:15am
Where: Waratah family Centre
Dads support group
A welcoming space for dads to meet, talk, help each other and be the best dads they can be.
Dates: starts 26 October
When: Mondays fortnightly 5-7pm
Where: Waratah family centre
Turning into kids (for dads)
Learn how to support your kids by understanding their emotions and learning skills in emotion coaching.
Dates: 27 Oct – 1 Dec
When: Tuesdays 5-7pm
Where: Waratah family centre
Circle of security parenting program
Dates: 20 Oct- 1 Dec
When: Tuesdays 10am – 12:30pm
Where: Waratah family centre
How to register
To maintain comfortable group sizes and deliver safe, practical support, places are strictly limited in all support groups.
To register or enquire:
Frequently asked questions
Are there fees to join a support group?
No. All community support groups and parenting programs offered at our Waratah centre are provided free of charge to eligible residents in the Newcastle area.
Can I turn up on the day without registering?
No. Prior registration is required for all groups, including Bush Playgroup and Playtime Group, to ensure safe room capacity and appropriate staffing ratios.
What happens if a group block has already started?
If a structured program (such as Circle of Security or Bringing Up Great Kids) has already commenced, your details can be placed on a waitlist for the following school term intake.