Parenting in the North ‘What’s On Guide’ - Term 1 2026 News and Information on programs and services to support parents across the Northern region of Melbourne
Table of Contents
What’s new at ParentZone Northern? .............................................................................................................. 3 Northern Parent Educator Network (NPEN) Update.................................................................................... 4 ParentZone Pods ..................................................................................................................................................... 5 ParentZone Northern Multi Session Programs ............................................................................................ 6 ParentZone Northern Single Session Programs ......................................................................................... 9 Mother Goose Parent Child Playgroups .........................................................................................................10 What else is happening in the North? ........................................................................................................... 13 Useful contacts for families .............................................................................................................................. 19
What's new at ParentZone Northern?
At ParentZone Northern, we remain committed to delivering responsive and accessible parenting programs for parents, caregivers, and professional development training for practitioners in the field. Our approach is grounded in a strengths-based, culturally sensitive, and gender-sensitive practice model, ensuring that families feel supported and empowered. ParentZone Northern is based at our Anglicare Victoria- Broadmeadows Women’s Community House Site. Our programs span across the local government areas of Whittlesea, HumeMerribek, Nillumbik, Banyule, Darebin, and Yarra, and we continue to work closely with our Family Services teams in Epping, Preston, and Broadmeadows. As part of the regional ParentZone network, we are dedicated to sharing best practices and developing innovative programs that meet the diverse needs of our community. This includes initiatives for migrant parents, fathers, parents of children with disabilities, and families navigating parenting after violence. 2025 has been an exceptionally busy and rewarding year for our team. We successfully delivered a comprehensive suite of programs and proudly introduced our exciting new initiative: one-to-one parent-based support. This service provides vulnerable families with the opportunity to receive personalised assistance from practitioners in the comfort of their own homes, a vital step toward strengthening family resilience. In 2026 we are excited to continue delivering our parenting courses and supported playgroups across the Northern region. The importance of parenting programs extends beyond individual families; they contribute to the well-being of our entire community. By equipping parents and caregivers with essential skills and knowledge, we foster healthier family dynamics and stronger, more connected communities. Our experienced and dedicated team has worked tirelessly throughout the year, and we look forward to continuing to support families in 2026. We are committed to working collaboratively and in partnership with external stakeholders and families to ensure the best outcomes for children and parents. From all of us at ParentZone Northern, we wish you a safe and happy New Year. Thank you for being part of our journey, we look forward to another year of learning, growth, and community connection.
Bella Odicho Team Leader ParentZone Northern
Northern Parent Educator Network (NPEN) NPEN Update The Term 4 NPEN meeting was held online on 13th November 2026. We were happy to have Sihem Sayoud present about Spectrum and the amazing supports and services they provide the migrant and refugee community and Dani Green present about Parent Pathways Program. It was great to hear from both services and to learn about referral and access pathways and services they offer to families. A very big thank you to both Sihem and Dani for their fantastic presentations! 15 professionals attended and valuable program updates were shared. Also, thanks to Cal our group work facilitator for delivering the self-care activity.
Northern Parent Educator Network (NPEN)
Please remember NPEN is a great opportunity to network/information share, develop partnerships, find out about local services, community resources and connect with other professionals. If you are interested in presenting or attending, please email Roba.Elkadi@anglicarevic.org.au
Podcast on Spotify
The ParentZone Pods, is a podcast series presenting parenting snapshots on key issues for parents needing a little bit more before joining a group, or simply those wanting an idea of what to expect from our distinctive group work style. Jump on Spotify to hear it all! ParentZone Pods can be found on our website, Apple and via Spotify
ParentZone Northern Term 1 Multi-Session Parenting Programs
Tuning in to Teens
Tuning in to Kids
Dates: Tuesdays, 10th February – 17th March 2026 (6 sessions) Time: 6pm - 8pm Where: Online
Dates: Fridays, 13th February – 20th March 2026 (6 sessions) Time: 1pm - 2.30pm Where: Online
Tuning in to Teens is a FREE six-session program for parents and carers of young people aged 12-18 years. It provides a number of skills and strategies to help with everyday parenting challenges, based on emotionally tuned parenting.
Tuning in to Kids is a FREE six-session program for parents and carers of children aged 6-11 years. It provides a number of skills and strategies to help with everyday parenting challenges, based on emotionally tuned parenting.
The program will help you to learn how to:
The program will help you in learning how to:
Understand your teen’s emotions and help them manage and regulate them Be aware and manage your own emotions Build attachment and teaching through emotional experiences Develop skills to assist your teen in problem solving Bookings and Enquiries: ParentZone Northern: (03) 9301 5200 or email parentzone.northern@anglicarevic.org.au
Understand your child’s emotions and help them manage and regulate them Be aware and manage your own emotions Build attachment and teaching through emotional experiences Develop skills to assist your child in problem solving Bookings and Enquiries: ParentZone Northern: (03) 9301 5200 parentzone.northern@anglicarevic.org.au
or
ParentZone Northern Term 1 Multi-Session Parenting Programs
Nuero Affirming Parenting
Tuning in to Teens
Dates: Wednesday, 11th February – 18th March 2026 (6 sessions) Time: 9.30am - 11:30am Where: Dulap Wilim Hub, 13 Leichardt St, Sunbury
Dates: Thursdays, 12th February – 19th March 2026 (6 sessions) Time: 10am-12pm Where: Broadmeadows Women’s Community House, 2 Hadfield Court, Broadmeadows
Parenting a neurodiverse young person requires a unique set of skills, and every family’s journey is different. Whether you're seeking more knowledge, support, or just a safe space to share your experiences, this FREE six-session program for parents and carers of young people aged 11-17 years will provide you with a toolkit to navigate your child's needs with confidence.
Tuning in to Teens is a FREE six-session program for parents and carers of young people aged 12-18 years. It provides a number of skills and strategies to help with everyday parenting challenges, based on emotionally tuned parenting.
The program will help you to learn how to: Developing their social skills Knowing their strengths Managing changes and transitions Responding to meltdowns Helping your child to regulate their emotions Bookings and Enquiries: ParentZone Northern: (03) 9301 5200 or email parentzone.northern@anglicarevic.org.au
The program will help you to learn how to: Understand your teen’s emotions and help them manage and regulate them Be aware and manage your own emotions Build attachment and teaching through emotional experiences Develop skills to assist your teen in problem solving Bookings and Enquiries: ParentZone Northern: (03) 9301 5200 parentzone.northern@anglicarevic.org.au
or
ParentZone Northern Term 1 Multi -Session Parenting Programs
Living with Autism
Circle of Security
Dates: Mondays, 9th February - 16th March 2026 Time: 10am-12pm Venue: Epping Views Family and Community Centre, 15 Lyndarum Drive, Epping Cost: This program is free of charge, but registration is essential
Dates: Thursdays, 12th February – 26th March 2026 (7 sessions) Time: 6pm-7.30pm Venue: Online Cost: This program is free of charge, but registration is essential
Parenting a neurodivergent child requires a unique set of skills, and every family’s journey is different. Whether you're seeking more knowledge, support, or just a safe space to share your experiences, this program will provide you with a toolkit to navigate your child's needs with confidence.
Circle of Security is a relationship-based program that is designed to help parents and carers to understand their child’s behaviour and to build and strengthen a secure relationship with their child. This is a FREE 8 session program that will help you to:
ParentZone and Whittlesea City Council are working together to bring you this FREE 6-week parenting group. Join us to: Learn how to use compassionate communication with your child that builds their trust and reduces stress Discover how to reinforce positive behaviours and manage challenging behaviours in a supportive way Understand the importance of self-care Connect with other parents/carers to share stories and experiences Booking and Enquiries: ParentZone Northern: (03) 9301 5200 or email parentzone.northern@anglicarevic.org.au
Understand your child’s emotion world by learning to read their emotions Support your child to be able to manage their emotions Enhance your child’s self -esteem Honour your inner wisdom and desire for your child to be secure
Booking and Enquiries: ParentZone Northern: (03) 9301 5200 or email parentzone.northern@anglicarevic.org.au
ParentZone Northern Term 1 Single Session Parenting Programs
Raising Resilient Kids
Managing Your Child’s Anxiety
Date: Tuesday 24th March 2026 Time: 7pm - 8pm Venue: Online Cost: Free of charge, however registration is essential
Date: Thursday 26th March 2026 Time: 10am - 12pm Venue: Thomastown Neighbourhood House Cost: Free of charge, however registration is essential
As parents, we all want our children to grow up strong, confident, and capable of overcoming obstacles. In today’s fast-paced, sometimes unpredictable world, resilience is more important than ever.
As parents, we all want our children to grow up confident and secure. But in today’s world, it’s common for kids to experience worries and anxieties that affect their daily lives.
This session will provide you with the tools and strategies you need to help your child build emotional strength and develop a growth mindset.
This session is designed to help parents understand the causes of children's worries and equip them with strategies to reduce stress and build resilience in their kids.
You will learn: What resilience is and why it’s essential for your child’s success and well-being How to help your child regulate their emotions and navigate challenges with confidence How to encourage perseverance and a positive attitude toward setbacks Tips and techniques you can apply at home to nurture resilience in everyday situations Turning mistakes into learning opportunities and teaching your child to bounce back stronger Booking and Enquiries: ParentZone Northern: (03) 9301 5200 parentzone.northern@anglicarevic.org.au
or
You will learn to: Understand fears, worries and anxieties that children experience Explore the developmental reasons children worry and how it’s a normal part of their emotional growth Understanding and empathising with their experiences- exploring ideas and responses that support them. Booking and Enquiries: ParentZone Northern: (03) 9301 5200 parentzone.northern@anglicarevic.org.au
or
Mother Goose Supported Playgroups
Parent-Child Mother Goose Program Playgroups Parent-Child Mother Goose program is an evidence-based program that strengthens attachment and interaction between parents and carers and their young children by introducing them to enjoyment of using rhymes, songs and stories together. Through the program, parents gain skills and confidence that help them: create positive family patterns during their children's early years. strengthening the parent-child connection promoting the language development of young children building a supportive group where otherwise isolated parents can feel comfortable reducing parental stress building skills and confidence of parents and caregivers to create positive family routines for their young children connecting parents/carers with other families and community resources
Booking and Enquiries: Call (03)9301 5250 or email womenshouse@anglicarevic.org.au
Mother Goose Supported Playgroups Term 1, 2026
Broadmeadows Valley Primary School Hub
DATE: Mondays (8 sessions over 8 weeks) 2nd February - 23rd March TIME: 1pm - 2.30pm WHERE: Broadmeadows Valley Primary School Hub: Dimboola Road, Broadmeadows
Ganbu Gulinj Community Centre Wollert
DATE: Tuesdays (4 sessions over 4 weeks) 24th February - 17th March TIME: 10am - 12pm WHERE: Ganbu Gulinj Community Centre: 55 Macedon Parade, Wollert (MCH Program Room)
Broadmeadows Library
DATE: Wednesdays (7 sessions over 7 weeks) 11th February – 25th March TIME: 10am-11am WHERE: Broadmeadows Library, 1093 Pascoe Vale Rd, Broadmeadows
Meadows Primary School Hub
DATE: Thursdays (8 Sessions over 8 weeks) 5th February – 26th March TIME: 1pm - 2.30pm WHERE: Meadows Primary School, 41 Gerbert St, Broadmeadows
ParentZone Northern Playgroups
Baby & Me: Parent Child Mother Goose Program Aimed at Babies aged 0-12 months
Parent-Child Mother Goose is an evidence-based program that strengthens attachment and interaction between parents or carers and their young children by introducing them to enjoyment of using rhymes, songs and stories together. Through the program, parents gain skills and confidence that help them create positive family patterns during their children's crucial early years. At the same time, children benefit from enjoyable, healthy early experiences with language and communication.
FREE 10 Week Program for parents and caregivers residing in Whittlesea City Council.
DATES: Weekly on Wednesdays 28th January - 1st April 2026 TIME:
10.30am-12pm
WHERE: Galada MCH Centre, Galada Community Centre, 10c Forum Way, Epping
Booking and Enquiries: Contact ParentZone Northern: (03) 9301 5200 or email parentzone.northern@anglicarevic.org.au
What else is happening in the North?
Summer Holidays
Scan QR and Learn More!
Join the fun at TRAC! Pool
Inflatable
Kids Boxing Pool
Days Kids Zumba
Party
Splash Park Sausage Sizzle
Superhero with Inflatable Fun
Thomastown Recreation & Aquatic Centre (03) 9463 0700 www.trac.com.au 52-54 Main St, Thomastown, 3074
Meet
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Useful Contacts for Families Help Lines Police (24-hour stations) 000 Lifeline Crisis Support. Suicide Prevention 13 11 14 Parentline Victoria Counselling Service 13 22 89 Family Violence Help: 1800 015 188 Kids Help Line Phone Counselling Service: 1800 551 800 Homeless Crisis Line 1800 825 955 Drug and Alcohol Services 1800 888 236 Mensline Counselling Service 1300 78 99 78 Q Line Counselling & Referral for LGBTI people 1800 184 527 1800 Respect: 1800 737 732
City of Whittlesea
Centrelink Carers 132 717 Families 136 150 Financial Information Service (FIS) 136 357 (FIS seminar booking) Help in an Emergency 132 850 Indigenous Australians Call Centre 1800 136 388 Languages (Multilingual) 131 202 Low Income Healthcare Card 132 490
25 Ferres Boulevard, South Morang, VIC, 3752 Australia (03) 9217 2170 https://www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/
Online Support Hotline 132 307
City of Darebin
People With a Disability 132 717
myGov Help Desk 132 307
274 Gower Street, Preston, VIC 3072 (03) 9470 8888 https://www.darebin.vic.gov.au/
Banyule City Council 1 Flintoff Street, Greensborough VIC 3088 (03) 9490 4222 https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/
Nillumbik Shire Council 32 Civic Drive, Greensborough (03) 9433 3111 https://www.nillumbik.vic.gov.au/Home
Yarra City Council 140 Hoddle Street, Abbotsford/333 Bridge Road, Richmond (03) 9205 5555 https://www.whitehorse.vic.gov.au/
Hume City Council 1079 Pascoe Vale Road, Broadmeadows/75-95 Central Park Avenue, Craigieburn/44 Macedon St, Sunbury VIC 3429/82/90 St Georges Blvd, Mickleham VIC 3064 (03) 9205 2200 https://www.hume.vic.gov.au/Your-Council/Contact-Us
Medicare General enquiries 132 011 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Line 1800 556 955 Australian Immunisation Register Enquiries 1800 653 809 Compensation Recovery Medicare 132 127 Disaster Health Care Assistance 1800 660 026 myGov help desk 132 307 Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme 132 290 Telephone claims 1300 360 460 Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) 131 450