Tuning in to Kids® – Parenting Program

Build Connection. Foster Emotional Intelligence.

At Guidestar Psychology in Coburg Melbourne, we’re proud to offer the evidence-based Tuning in to Kids® program — designed to support parents and carers of children aged 3 to 12 in understanding and responding to their child’s emotional world in a meaningful and effective way.

This 6-week parenting course in Coburg runs once a week for 2 hours, providing practical, supportive, and transformative strategies for families. It is one of the few evidence-based parenting programs in Melbourne proven to strengthen the parent–child relationship.

What is Tuning in to Kids®?

Tuning in to Kids® Melbourne helps parents and carers learn how to use emotion coaching — a powerful approach that supports children in understanding and regulating their emotions. The program was developed by Professor Sophie Havighurst and Ann Harley at the University of Melbourne and is delivered by our qualified psychologists in Coburg.

By tuning in and responding to children’s emotions with empathy and guidance, parents can help their children:

• Develop strong emotional intelligence
• Build resilience and confidence
• Communicate more openly
• Manage big feelings and behaviour challenges
• Strengthen their social skills and relationships

These skills form the foundation of effective emotional regulation strategies for children, which are key to reducing behavioural difficulties and improving family life.

What You’ll Learn

Over six weeks, parents and carers will learn how to:

• Recognise and respond to children’s emotions before they escalate
• Accept and validate their child’s emotional experience
• Support children to name and understand their emotions
• Help children manage difficult feelings constructively
• Problem-solve effectively when challenges arise

Parents also reflect on their own emotional responses and learn how to model healthy emotion regulation in everyday parenting.

This makes the program an excellent choice for those seeking parent coaching in Coburg, group therapy for parents in Melbourne, or counselling for anxiety and behaviour in children.

Why It Matters

Children who develop strong emotional skills are better equipped to navigate friendships, school life, and mental health challenges as they grow. Research shows that parenting support programs in Melbourne like Tuning in to Kids® not only reduce emotional and behavioural difficulties but also deepen the connection between parent and child.

Parents often report:

• Improved communication with their children
• Greater emotional closeness
• More confidence in managing tricky moments
• Feeling calmer and more supported in their parenting

Program Details – Guidestar Psychology Coburg

Who: Parents and carers of children aged 3–12

When: Weekly sessions (2 hours) over 6 weeks

Where: Guidestar Psychology, Unit 5/19 Pentridge Blvd Coburg VIC 3058 (in-person or online group program)

Facilitated by: Qualified psychologists and trained Tuning in to Kids® facilitators

Register Your Interest

Spaces are limited to ensure a supportive group environment. To register for our next Tuning in to Kids® program in Melbourne, please email clinic@guidestar.au or call (03) 9994 3345 to speak with one of our team about child psychologist services in Coburg or upcoming parenting programs.

Let’s work together to build emotionally intelligent, connected, and resilient families.