I want to show up for my kids, even when it’s hard

When Daniel found himself navigating life after divorce, his focus was clear - his kids.

“It’s certainly been a journey,” he says with a smile. “But I’ve always wanted to be the kind of dad who’s there for his kids. The kind of dad who listens, learns, and makes it clear to my kids that I love them dearly.”

Like many parents going through separation, Daniel was juggling a lot, managing change, emotions, and the desire to protect his children’s wellbeing through it all. 

So, when he learned about our Family Works Parenting Through Separation programme, he signed up for the workshop, hopeful it might offer some practical support.

What he didn’t expect was how deeply it would resonate.

“I got much more out of it than I thought I would. It was insightful and touched on the realities of separation and the emotions of both the kids and the parents. It helped to clarify what my kids might be feeling now, what they might be feeling in the future, and what I can do about it.” 

Tools for tricky times

The programme gave Daniel tools for navigating tricky conversations, managing stress, and creating routines that help his children feel safe and secure. One key takeaway for him was learning how children often express distress through behaviour, something that’s easy to miss when emotions are high.

“It’s easy to expect that kids can just explain their feelings with words. But that’s not always the case. The course made it clear that there are many ways they show their feelings. Like clinginess, anger, or even silence. It reminded me to slow down and listen and not just say ‘she’ll be right’ and move on.”

Since attending, Daniel has noticed a real shift, not just in his own confidence, but in the way his children respond to him.

“I’m calmer and they’re calmer. We talk more and are more open. Even in the small moments, like getting ready for school or eating dinner.”

Our Parenting Through Separation programme supports parents to put their children’s needs first during times of family change. It’s free, practical, and packed with strategies that are rooted in empathy, connection, and care. For Daniel, the experience was empowering.

“I’m still figuring it out. Probably always will be. But at least now I’ve got a bit more clarity and knowledge. And I know I’m not alone.”