The Power of Caregiver Partnerships

Fiona Goodall • September 1, 2025

How Parent Coaching Shapes Social Success

At Making Connections Toowoomba, we know that young people thrive best when caregivers are supported and empowered. That’s why we strongly value caregiver partnerships and actively invite parents and carergivers to be part of the journey. One of the most powerful ways we do this is through parent coaching and training sessions.


Why Parent Coaching Matters

Research shows that when parents are equipped with the right tools, they become powerful change agents in their child’s social and emotional development. A study on the Parental Friendship Coaching Intervention for children with ADHD (see link below) highlights this beautifully.


The program focused on teaching parents how to coach their children in friendship skills, while also improving how parents respond to their child’s emotions (known as parental emotion socialization). The results were encouraging:

  • Parents learned how to guide social interactions more effectively.
  • Children received more consistent support in navigating friendships.
  • Families experienced improved communication and understanding around emotions.

In short, when parents were trained and supported, children with ADHD had better chances of developing lasting, positive peer relationships.


Our Approach at Making Connections Toowoomba

This research aligns closely with what we see every day. At Making Connections Toowoomba, we believe that caregiver involvement isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. That’s why we offer:

  • Parent Coaching Sessions – practical guidance tailored to your child’s unique profile.
  • Caregiver Training – evidence-based strategies that you can use at home, school, and in the community.
  • Collaborative Programs – opportunities for caregivers to learn alongside their child, fostering consistency and confidence.


The Benefits for Families

By partnering with caregivers, we see families experience:

  • Greater confidence in supporting social and emotional learning at home.
  • Reduced stress from knowing they’re not alone in navigating challenges.
  • Stronger parent–child relationships built on shared strategies and understanding.


Not Just for NDIS Families

Importantly, our parent coaching and training sessions are for all families who would like extra support, not just those accessing the NDIS. We know how stressful it can feel to wonder whether you’ll qualify for funding or not. That’s why we make our services available to everyone—removing barriers and focusing on what really matters: helping your child and family thrive.


Research

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