Social media Q&A in the mix for You’re Kidding Me 2021

Published on 26 August 2021

Expert-led talks and workshops are set to kick off in September as part of Lake Macquarie City Council’s You’re Kidding Me program.

The program, designed to improve access to health, education and family services for Lake Mac families, features a series of online information sessions to help inform and inspire parents and their children.

Community Planner Children and Families Erin Peterson said You’re Kidding Me demonstrated Council’s continued support for Lake Mac families, particularly during COVID lockdowns.

“Each session will cover a different topic, including family law services, children’s emotions during the current pandemic, children’s health, nature play and tips for a calm transition to school,” Ms Peterson said.

“We understand that this time is especially hard for families so we want parents to come along and get some valuable advice to make any aspect of their life easier.”

Local children’s health education platform Sick Happens will host a Q&A takeover of Council’s Instagram on Tuesday 21 September, focusing on the skills required to navigate children’s illness with confidence and calm.

Founder Penny Blunden said the You’re Kidding Me program was a great example of locals helping locals.

“Lake Mac is a thriving hub of families and small businesses, and this program is showcasing how these two worlds combine,” Ms Blunden said.

“My Q&A session will give parents the opportunity to ask me anything about children’s health, as well as provide access to additional resources to learn more.”

The Q&A session will show as an Instagram story on Lake Macquarie City Council’s Instagram account.

“I love connecting with parents on social media. Instagram is a fantastic platform that allows parents to gain information from healthcare professionals from the comfort of their own home,” Ms Blunden said.

“Especially at the moment when our access to healthcare is made more difficult living in lockdown.”

Other You’re Kidding Me workshops include a 14 September session by Community Legal Education Coordinator Duhita Lewis and Family Law Solicitor Clair Tait, who will provide advice relating to family law and co-parenting.

Local clinical psychologist company Beam Health will host two talks on keeping your sanity as a parent and supporting kids through big emotions and behaviours. They will run from 10am-12pm and 1-3pm on 15 September.

There will be a children’s nature play workshop on 22 September, led by experienced educator, consultant and nature play program facilitator Nicole Halton from Inspired EC.

A workshop by primary school educator Kim Moroney debunking many of the myths about what children need to know before school, is also on offer on 5 October.

You’re Kidding Me will run 14 September-5 October, with bookings essential.

Go to lakemac.com.au for more information and to book.