StrongStartPractice

for Infants Toddlers, and Dads

Practice habits to support a strong start.

Weekly play group where dads work on supporting mental development while kids play in a respectful, engaging environment.

Wednesday Mornings in Downtown Santa Monica

They are the sum of your habits

Become aware of your habits and relax, learn about and enjoy their child’s mental development, and hone their distinct parenting style.

With guidance from a StrongStart™ Facilitator, discussions may include:

  • Managing flow and pace of communication

  • Giving time and space

  • Teaching agency by giving agency

  • Problem Behaviors

Practice Habits to Support a Strong Start

Observation:

Notice your child’s cues and approach to learning. Understand who they are, not who you imagine them to be, and practice seeing the world through their eyes.

Find Learning:

Resist the urge to rescue, and allow them to challenge themselves and even to struggle. Support problem-solving, confidence, and resilience.

Narration:

Communicate with information rather than direction, with presence rather than praise, with patience and time for them to respond.

Boundaries:

Set consistent, clear boundaries, and be present to reinforce them. Provide freedom to explore within clear parameters to support safety and security.

What parents are saying

Who is StrongStart™ Practice For?

An adult crouching beside a child in front of an educational poster about early engagement and communication strategies titled 'StrongStart.' The poster provides guidance on respectful communication, leadership presence, and viewing children as competent individuals.

StrongStart Practice is for dads of infants and toddlers (3 - 40 months old), who want an intentional space to reflect on and hone their habits to support their child’s development.

Observe your baby moving, playing, and interacting with others, connect to a community of other engaged dads, and acquire tools that you can start using immediately.

Dads + Infants (Crawling) 9:00 - 10:15 AM

Dads + Toddlers (Walking) 10:15 - 11:30 AM

Suggested donation: $25

 

StrongStart™ Practice Wednesdays FAQ

  • Step by Step, 1334 Lincoln Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401

    There is free parking, accessible from the alley (with an entrance at Arizona Ave and 7th Ct.)

  • StrongStart™ is oriented towards the unique role dads play— but all caregivers all welcome!

  • There is a suggested donation of $25— but the class is open to all, regardless of ability to pay.

  • We encourage you to come without your partner— it’s a great chance for you to reflect on your individual habits,— but partners and family groups are always welcome!

  • The sessions are led by a StrongStart™ facilitator. Topics include setting boundaries, respect-based parenting tactics, and any other questions that arise!

Reserve your spot at Practice

Wednesday Mornings

Infants + Dads: 9 - 10:15; Toddlers + Dads: 10:15 - 11:45

Got Questions?

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