Role of families and community

What role did extended family have in your childhood?

• In some cultures, extended families can have an important and supportive role. If you have extended family in Australia, each partner may want to have the support of his or her own family. Sometimes this can be very helpful while other times, extended families can feel a bit intrusive. It’s good to discuss this issue as a couple, in a sensitive way, so that the needs of both you and your partner are met, and you can receive support from both families.

• If your extended family takes part in looking after your child, it can also be helpful to talk to your extended family about what your parenting style is, for example, that you use positive discipline. See Managing Behaviour.

• Elders and community leaders may play an important role in your life. They may also help you teach your children about their heritage and traditions. You can get together to celebrate traditional holidays or occasions, share a meal, and common experiences or challenges.

• If your extended family is not in Australia or within proximity, you and your partner may be feeling like you are missing the additional support they would provide. Other families or parents may be a support for you and your partner as new parents.

• If you don’t already have other families you are friends with, parenthood can be an opportunity to extend your social networks. This can be done by attending playgroups, parenting groups, local community centres, places of worship, childcare, and with the help of other services.

• Check the list of support services available to find out where you can get advice and find more information on being a father and meeting shared parenting goals with your partner.