Just being Dad

CHILDREN in Casey can bond with their dads, step-dads, grand-dads and father figures with a variety of exciting City of Casey Dads Matter Programs.
City of Casey Manager Youth and Family Services Colette McMahon said the programs were very popular because the activities were developed by men for men and they reflected the diverse interests and needs of fathers and children.
“In 2010, more than 6000 dads and their children attended a huge range of activities,” Ms McMahon said.
“These programs provided an opportunity for dads to get together, develop social networks and support channels, and to spend valuable time with their children.”
Activities planned for 2011 include Dig it with Dad, which allows dads and their children, aged up to 6, to grow organic fruit and vegetables from seed to harvest. All tools and seeds are provided. Dig it with Dad will be held on Saturday mornings at the Chisholm Institute on Cranbourne Campus from 10am until 12pm.
Pizza, Playstation and Paper Planes is an event where dads and the children spend time together playing games, reading books, doing craft activities and playing Playstation3, while enjoying a pizza dinner.
Two sessions are held each week.
The free event is held on Wednesday nights, at the Cranbourne Library on Berwick-Cranbourne Road, from 5.30pm until 7.30pm.
FACT Sunday sessions (Father and Children Together) allows fathers to spend quality one-on-one time with their children, aged up to six, in a relaxed setting where they can meet other dads, get involved in an organised activity or just hang out with their kids.
A variety of toys, games and books are supplied.
FACT is held on Sunday morning at Littlecroft Family Resource Centre, 51A The Strand, Narre Warren South from 9.30am until 11.30am.
Dads and children can coo up a mean meal during Cook it with Dad.
Fathers and their children select and prepare ingredients to make their dinner, interacting while cooking and then sitting down to an evening meal that they created together.
The emphasis is on having fun and the recipes are easy to follow and taste great. Bookings are essential.
Cook it with dad is held on Monday nights at the Berwick Leisure Centre, 79 Manuka Road in Berwick from 5.30pm until 7.30pm Entry is free. For any inquiries and bookings please contact the City of Casey on 9705 5590 or email dadsmatter@casey.vic.gov.au