Our Programs & Classes
Whether you're navigating a tough season or preparing for what's next, our support for new parents provides the tools and community to move forward through hard days, big changes, and everything in between.
At Families Matter, we believe every family deserves support. No matter how you identify, your family structure, background, or where you are in your parenting journey including our parenting classes for dads you are welcome here. If you're unsure which programs are the best fit, reach out. We'll help guide you to the support that feels right for your family.
Support for Moms
We understand that motherhood can be beautiful and overwhelming. Whether you're adjusting to life with a new baby or navigating family life, we connect moms with support, resources, and community.
Be sure to scroll down for your favourite classes, as spaces are limited and fill up quickly. Complete the intake form for a one-to-one support.
Personalized In-Home Support
Sometimes the best support comes from someone who truly understands. Our peer-led support and parenting support classes connect you with people who have lived experience in parenting and mental health.
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Perinatal Mental Health Support:
Support for moms experiencing postpartum depression or anxiety, with a focus on maternal wellbeing and building a healthy connection with baby.
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Home Visitation:
For families with children aged 0–6, offering parenting support and practical strategies tailored to your child’s development.
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Successful Young Parents:
Specialized, non-judgmental support for families where at least one parent is under 23, helping young moms build confidence and stability.
Community & Group Connections
Finding your village can make all the difference. Our group programs, including dedicated perinatal mental health support, offer welcoming spaces to connect, share experiences, and learn alongside other moms and caregivers.
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Perinatal Mental Health Support Group:
Weekly virtual and in-person support groups with childcare available during in-person sessions.
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Family Development Centre Programs:
Welcoming spaces for families to connect, play, and learn together. Explore our Monthly Calendars for drop-in programs and classes for you and your little ones.
Peer-Led Support
Sometimes the best support comes from someone who truly understands. Our peer-led support and parenting support classes connect you with people who have lived experience in parenting and mental health.
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In-Home Respite:
Up to 12 respite sessions available during your baby’s first year to give you extra support and time to recharge.
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Peer Support by Phone:
Weekly phone support from mentors with lived experience in parenting and mental health.
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Black Canadian Community Peer Support:
Weekly culturally safe phone support created for and by members of the Black community, offering understanding, connection, and encouragement.
Support for Dads
We recognize the important role fathers and male caregivers play in their children’s lives. Whether you’re seeking parenting support or connection with other dads, we offer welcoming programs designed for you.
Be sure to scroll down for your favourite classes, as spaces are limited and fill up quickly. Complete the intake form for a one-to-one support.
In-Home Support & 1:1 Coaching
Our one-on-one supports provide personalized coaching that fits your schedule and focuses on the goals that matter most to you and your family.
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Fathering for the Future Coaching:
Meet weekly with a dedicated fathering coach to build parenting skills, navigate challenges, and recognize the positive impact you have on your child’s life.
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Perinatal Mental Health for Dads:
Support for dads experiencing stress, anxiety, overwhelm, or difficulty adjusting during the postpartum period, with a focus on mental wellbeing and connection with baby.
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Successful Young Parents:
Specialized, non-judgmental support for families where at least one parent is under 23, helping young dads build confidence and stability.
Group Support & Community
Fatherhood is easier when you have support around you. Our group programs create opportunities to connect with other dads in a relaxed, welcoming environment.
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Papa Bears Drop-In:
Join us for Saturday morning sessions from 10am–12pm at various locations, or our Wednesday evening hangout from 5pm – 7pm in Midnapore. No registration required.
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Young Parents Hangout:
A welcoming drop-in space for young families where at least one parent is under 25, focused on connection, support, and shared experiences.
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Family Development Centre Drop-In Programs:
Our centres offer classes, play sessions, and family programming throughout the month. Explore our Monthly Calendars to see what’s happening at our Horizon and Midnapore locations.
Clinical Counselling
Sometimes extra support can make a big difference. We offer mental health support tailored specifically for fathers and male caregivers.
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Clinical Counselling for Fathers:
Work with our in-house therapist to navigate stress, relationship changes, parenting challenges, and mental health concerns while building resilience for yourself and your family.
Support for Young Parents
Whether you’re looking for a mentor to visit you at home or a casual place to meet other young families, we support parents aged 23 and under as they navigate early parenthood.
Be sure to scroll down for your favourite classes, as spaces are limited and fill up quickly. Complete the intake form for a one-to-one support.
Personalized In-Home Support
Our in-home programs connect you with a dedicated worker for 1 hour a week in your home for up to 1 year, providing consistent support as you adjust to life with a young child.
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Successful Young Parents 1:1:
For families where at least one parent is 23 or younger. Offers personalized coaching, encouragement, and support to build confidence in parenting.
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Fathering for the Future 1:1:
One-on-one coaching for young dads focused on your role as a father, with practical tools to support your relationship with your child.
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Peer Respite:
Short-term support that gives you a break to rest and recharge while your child is cared for in a safe, supportive space.
Group Support & Community
Our group programs are relaxed, welcoming spaces to help you connect with others in the same stage of life.
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Successful Young Parents Hangout:
A drop-in space for families where at least one parent is 25 or under. A low-pressure environment to connect while your children play.
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Perinatal Mental Health (PMH) Support Group:
A supportive space to talk about the emotional ups and downs of early parenting with others who understand.
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Family Development Centre Drop-In Programs:
Our Horizon and Midnapore centres offer play-based learning and community activities. Check our Monthly Calendars for upcoming drop-in programs.
Opportunities for Connection & Play
These sessions provide a safe, vibrant environment where you and your child can learn, play, and grow side-by-side.
Be sure to scroll down for your favourite classes, as spaces are limited and fill up quickly.
Community Drop-Ins
Our groups are open, accessible, and designed to help families connect in supportive, engaging spaces.
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Family Development Centre Drop-In Programs:
Our Horizon and Midnapore hubs offer play sessions, classes, and community events. See our Monthly Calendars for what’s happening this month.
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Papa Bears Drop-In:
A relaxed space for dads on Saturday mornings (10am–12pm) and Wednesday evenings (5pm-7pm). No registration required—just drop in, play, and connect.
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Rainbow Families Drop-In:
A welcoming space for LGBTQ+ families held on Saturday afternoons, focused on connection and celebrating diverse families.
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Cantonese Drop-In:
A supportive space for Cantonese-speaking families, held on alternating Sundays, offering connection through language and culture.
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Successful Young Parents Hangout:
A drop-in for parents aged 25 and under to connect, share experiences, and build community in a relaxed setting.
Community drop-in programs do not require enrolment. Just drop in and join us!
Early Learning Across Cultures (ELAC)
Preparing for the transition to school is a big step. ELAC is our preschool readiness program designed to give children a head start while helping parents navigate the education system. Please note: This program requires an intake process to join.
Support for Expectant Parents
The journey to parenthood is full of anticipation and big questions. Whether you need education or extra support in the final months of pregnancy, we help you feel confident and prepared for your baby's arrival.
Be sure to scroll down for your favourite classes, as spaces are limited and fill up quickly. Complete the intake form for a one-to-one support.
Featured Program: Born Ready
A comprehensive childbirth education series for expectant parents and a support person. We cover labour and birth options, newborn care, and postpartum recovery.
Sessions fill quickly. If a class isn’t available, join our ongoing waitlist and we’ll notify you when the next session opens.
Group Support
Our group programs help you connect with other expectant families, typically offered in the third trimester.
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Perinatal Mental Health Support Group:
A weekly space to share experiences and prepare for the postpartum transition with others who understand.
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Successful Young Parents Hangout:
A relaxed drop-in for expectant parents aged 25 and under to connect and build community early.
Group and community classes do not require enrolment. Just drop in and join us!
In-Home Support (Third Trimester)
Available from the third trimester on a triaged basis, our in-home supports offer 1 hour of weekly support in your home to help you prepare for life with your baby.
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Perinatal Mental Health 1:1 Support:
Private support for prenatal anxiety or mood challenges, focused on your mental well-being before baby arrives.
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Home Visitation:
Practical support to prepare for baby, including parenting strategies and guidance for the early months.
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Fathering for the Future 1:1 Coaching:
Coaching for expectant dads to prepare for their role during birth and beyond.
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Successful Young Parents:
Specialized support for expectant families where at least one parent is 23 or younger.
Professional Development Support
We believe strong families are built by well-supported professionals. Whether you’re refining your facilitation style or strengthening your agency’s structure, we provide training and tools to help you lead with intention and impact.
Be sure to scroll down for your favourite classes, as spaces are limited and fill up quickly.
GroupWise© Facilitation Training
Good facilitation isn’t a formula—it’s an art. While most training focuses on what to teach, GroupWise© focuses on how adults actually learn. This immersive 7-week program (3 hours per week) helps you develop your facilitation style while building the skills to lead groups with clarity, confidence, and care.
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Takeaways:
Includes a GroupWise© manual, a certificate of completion, and access to an ongoing Community of Practice. Investment: $475 per person.
Caring Dads
This internationally recognized program helps social workers, counsellors, and justice professionals support fathers who have used abusive, controlling, or neglectful behaviours. This intensive focuses on identifying coercive control and using trauma-informed, child-centred engagement that works.
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Takeaways:
Includes a 2-day workshop and a practitioner toolkit.
Investment: $1,000 per person.
Organizational & Custom Training
We understand that every team has unique needs. If you are looking to train your entire staff at once, we offer customized group options to help build internal capacity and ensure your team is aligned.
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Bring Training to Your Team:
We can tailor our sessions to fit your organization’s specific goals, creating consistency across all your programs and service delivery. To sign up for training, please email training@familiesmatter.ca.
Caring Dads Conversations
This training goes beyond theory to help frontline staff and educators build practical skills for engaging male caregivers in child-centred parenting conversations. You’ll learn how to build connections and turn challenging moments into opportunities for meaningful change.
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Format:
24 facilitated hours (available in-person or virtually).
Investment: $800 per person.
Peer Support Model Training
Peer support programs are incredibly powerful, but they require a solid foundation to be sustainable. We provide leadership teams and frontline staff with the structure and ethical framework needed to deliver peer support that is consistent and effective.
Training Options:
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Program Leadership (2-Day):
Designed for those managing or designing programs. We cover implementation, logistics (like managing honorariums), and strategies for retaining and supporting your peer teams while maintaining the integrity of the model.
Investment: $2,500 per agency (flat rate).
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Frontline & Supervisor Training (2-Day):
For those directly delivering or overseeing the work. We focus on the foundations of peer support, including boundaries, the use of lived experience, and practical tools for daily delivery.
Investment: $500 per person.
Dads Matter
This program gives social workers and frontline staff the practical tools to build and maintain strong relationships with fathers. By using motivational interviewing and interactive strategies, you will gain the skills to stay child-centered and effective in both group settings and one-on-one sessions.
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Takeaways:
Includes a 1-day workshop and a practical toolkit.
Investment: $575 per person.
Our Classes
Cantonese Family Drop-In
June 7 - November 22, 2026 (Sundays); 10:00 - 12:00pm
This dedicated space at our Family Development Centre welcomes Cantonese families and caregivers to engage in child-led, unstructured play with their young children aged 0-6 years. It offers meaningful opportunities for social connection, community building, and shared play experiences that support early development in a supportive, culturally inclusive environment.
The Dad Lounge Horizon
August 27 - December 17, 2026 (Thursdays); 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
The Dad Lounge is a monthly drop-in program that provides fathers with a welcoming space to connect, build friendships, and share experiences with other dads. Through casual conversation, activities, and facilitated discussions, participants strengthen parenting confidence, reduce social isolation, and gain support from a community of peers. Whether you're a new dad, experienced father, co-parent, or navigating a unique parenting journey, The Dad Lounge offers connection without judgment and community without pressure.
Caregiver Connect
September 13 - December 13, 2026 (Sundays); 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Join us weekly in a cozy drop-in style space for connection and honest discussion around the realities of parenting. Each week we will touch on a simple parenting or family wellness topic with time for questions, reflections and peer connection.
The Caregiver Connect is an adult only drop-in program and is open to parents and caregivers with at least one child aged 0-17 years old. Whether your current parenting journey involves babies, toddlers, little kids or teens, all those who identify as caregivers are welcome! No registration, no pressure, and no expectation to have it all figured out.
There is no childcare offered for this program, you are encouraged to use your own natural supports.
The Mom Lounge Midnapore
September 14 - December 14, 2026; (Mondays) 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Are you a Mom who is looking to get out of the house and make some connections with others? Join us weekly in a cozy drop-in style space to chat with Moms who are looking for the same. We have created an inviting space to visit when you’re in need of a change of scenery and some adult interaction. Relax with babes in arms (pre-crawlers are welcome) and enjoy some easy, fun self care activities and real conversations. Bring your coffee and take some time for you while connecting with others. This drop-in is all about you!
There is no childcare offered for this program.
Kindergarten Readiness (ELAC)
September 15 - December 10 2026 (Tuesday & Thurdays); 1:30pm - 3:30pm
Join us for a Kindergarten Readiness program with you and your preschooler aged 3-5. We will connect and explore through play, songs, stories, culture, tradition, and community!
Connect + Play Drop-In at Triwood
September 16 - December 16th, 2026 (Wednesdays); 9:45 -11:15 am
Join us for free play and connection in a welcoming, child-led environment for children aged 0–6. Children and caregivers explore, create, imagine, and play together while building friendships, sparking curiosity, and connecting with others in an unstructured, community-focused space.
Connect + Play Drop-In at Horizon
September 17 - December 17, 2026 (Thurdays); 10:00 - 12:00 pm
Join us for free play and connection in a welcoming, child-led environment for children aged 0–6. Children and caregivers explore, create, imagine, and play together while building friendships, sparking curiosity, and connecting with others in an unstructured, community-focused space.
The Mom Lounge Horizon
September 21 - December 7, 2026; 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Are you a Mom who is looking to get out of the house and make some connections with others? Join us weekly in a cozy drop-in style space to chat with Moms who are looking for the same. We have created an inviting space to visit when you’re in need of a change of scenery and some adult interaction. Relax with babes in arms (pre-crawlers are welcome) and enjoy some easy, fun self care activities and real conversations. Bring your coffee and take some time for you while connecting with others. This drop-in is all about you!
There is no childcare offered for this program, you are encouraged to use your own natural supports.
Connect + Play Drop-In at Midnapore
October 1, 2026 - December 26, 2026 (Thursdays) 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Join us for free play and connection in a welcoming, child-led environment for children aged 0–6. Children and caregivers explore, create, imagine, and play together while building friendships, sparking curiosity, and connecting with others in an unstructured, community-focused space.
Baby Drop-In (0-12 months) Horizon
October 6 - December 15, 2026 (Tuesdays); 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Baby Drop-In is a welcoming space for parents with babies aged 0–12 months to connect, ask questions, and learn together. In guided, relaxed conversations, parents explore sleep, feeding, development, and early parenting experiences while building community, sharing support, and learning about developmental stages in a playful, supportive environment.
Baby Drop-In Midnapore
October 7 - December 16, 2026 (Wednesdays); 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Baby Drop-In is a welcoming space for parents with babies aged 0–12 months to connect, ask questions, and learn together. In guided, relaxed conversations, parents explore sleep, feeding, development, and early parenting experiences while building community, sharing support, and learning about developmental stages in a playful, supportive environment.
Returning To Work After Baby
October 13 - November 17, 2026; (Tuesdays); 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Returning to work after having a baby is a big transition. This 6 week, adult-only program helps parents prepare for the changes that come with balancing work, family and everyday life. Together, we’ll explore identity and confidence, time management, relationships and boundaries, finances, meal planning, childcare options and adjusting to your new routine. Each session includes practical tools and take-home resources to help make the transition back to work feel more manageable. Childcare is not available, so please use your natural supports.
Rainbow Families Drop-In
Saturdays 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Rainbow Families is a welcoming, drop-in space for 2SLGBTQ+ (Two Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer) families with children 0–6years to connect, play, and build community. Children and caregivers explore, imagine, and create through unstructured, child-led play in a safe, inclusive environment. No registration needed—just come as you are and feel belonging.
Terrific Toddlers Online
October 21 - November 25, 2026 (Wednesday); 6:30pm - 8:30pm
This class explores developmental changes and challenges in raising children 18 months – 4 years. Topics include parenting styles and their impact on behaviour, learning through play, positive discipline strategies, avoiding power struggles, effective communication, and fostering self-esteem, all aimed at supporting healthy growth and confident development during early childhood.
Protected: Caring Connections Private
October 22 - November 26, 2026 (Thursdays); 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Caring Connections is a supportive group for moms focused on strengthening child-centered parenting and building safe, healthy relationships. Through guided discussion, participants explore stress, relationship patterns, and past experiences while learning practical ways to build connection, create safety, and care for themselves in a welcoming, non-judgmental space.
Parent-Child Mother Goose for Toddlers
November 3 - December 8, 2026 (Tuesdays); 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
The Parent-Child Mother Goose Program® is a group experience for parents and children aged 18 months to 3 years, focused on early literacy through rhythm, rhyme, stories, and songs. The program builds attachment through voice, emotion, and touch while helping parents gain confidence in creating positive early learning experiences.
Parent-Child Mother Goose for Toddlers
November 3rd - December 1st, 2026 (Tuesdays); 10:00 - 11:00 am
The Parent-Child Mother Goose Program® is a group experience for parents and children aged 18 to 24 months, focused on early literacy through rhythm, rhyme, stories, and songs. The program builds attachment through voice, emotion, and touch while helping parents gain confidence in creating positive early learning experiences.
Parent-Child Mother Goose for Toddlers
November 3rd - December 8th, 2026 (Tuesdays); 1:30 - 2:30 pm
The Parent-Child Mother Goose Program® is a group experience for parents and children aged 18 months to 3 years, focused on early literacy through rhythm, rhyme, stories, and songs. The program builds attachment through voice, emotion, and touch while helping parents gain confidence in creating positive early learning experiences.
Jump into Storytime
November 4th - November 25th, 2026 (Wednesdays); 2:00 - 3:00 pm
Engage in the magic of reading by Jumping into Storytime! for children aged 3–5 years. Join us for four one-hour sessions where we share favourite stories and read interactively with you and your children. Together, we’ll build a love of books, spark imagination, and strengthen early literacy through pictures, words, and connection.
Brain Builders
November 5th - December 10th, 2026 (Thursdays); 2:00 - 3:30 pm
Brain Builders is a fun and interactive parent–child program for children aged 3–6 and their caregivers. Through play-based activities, children practice important executive functioning skills such as focusing, remembering steps, managing feelings, and trying new challenges.
Caregivers actively participate in each session and learn simple, playful strategies to support their child’s thinking and self-regulation skills at home and in everyday routines.
Infant Massage for Dads
November 7 - December 5, 2026 (Saturdays); 10:00am - 11:30am
Infant Massage is a gentle, hands-on program for parents and babies aged 6 weeks to 8 months, you will learn safe, nurturing touch techniques to support your baby’s development, improve relaxation and sleep, and respond to distress. The class also builds confidence through guided practice in a calm, supportive, and welcoming environment.
Dance Along Midnapore
November 14 - December 12, 2026 (Saturdays); 10:00 am - 11:30 am
Join us for Dance Along, a fun, interactive program for children aged 1–3 where singing, movement, and play come together to support development and strengthen connection. Families learn new songs, explore simple instruments, and move and play together in a welcoming, playful environment that sparks creativity and builds connection.
Positive Discipline
November 18, 2026 (Wednesday); 9:30am - 11:30am
This workshop for parents of children aged 2–12 explores positive discipline techniques that guide parents away from punishment. Participants examine the difference between punishment and discipline while learning practical, proactive strategies to encourage positive behaviour and reduce the need for intervention.
When Consequences Don’t Work Online
November 19, 2026 (Thursday); 6:30pm - 8:30pm
In this workshop we look at the difference between logical & natural consequences, discuss why some consequences don’t work and consider some positive re-enforcers to encourage acceptable behaviour that work at different ages.
Avoiding Power Struggles Online
November 26, 2026 (Thursday); 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Power struggles are a normal part of child development as children explore autonomy and independence. In this session, we explore how parents can respond with positive actions, diffuse conflict, and use practical tools to build connection and cooperation, even when these moments feel challenging.
Understanding Parenting Styles Online
November 26, 2026 (Thursday); 6:30pm - 8:30pm
Through discussion of the parenting styles, you experienced as a child you will better understand your own. Practice the skill of good listening and conflict resolution. Discover how to make different parenting styles (even in different homes) work for your family.
Papa Bears Drop-In
Calling all dads and male caregivers! This drop-in group for children aged 0–5 offers a relaxed, welcoming space to connect through play, songs, and movement. Run by dads for dads, it also creates space to talk about child development, play, discipline, emotions, and self-care, while building connection and community.
Papa Bears: Primetime Drop-In – Midnapore
Calling all dads and male caregivers! This drop-in group for children aged 0–5 offers a relaxed, welcoming space to connect through play, songs, and movement. Run by dads for dads, it also creates space to talk about child development, play, discipline, emotions, and self-care, while building connection and community.
M is for Milestones (Developmental Screenings)
By Appointment
Curious how your little one is growing? Sit down one on one with a family support worker to complete the Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ), a simple screening that explores your child's milestones and celebrates their strengths. For children up to 5 years old. Add your name to the waitlist and we'll reach out to book a time.
M is for Milestones (Developmental Screenings)
By Appointment
Curious how your little one is growing? Sit down one on one with a family support worker to complete the Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ), a simple screening that explores your child's milestones and celebrates their strengths. For children up to 5 years old. Add your name to the waitlist and we'll reach out to book a time.
Born Ready – A Parent Prep Class – Intensive Pace
December 5th & 6th, 2026 (Saturday/Sunday) 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Join us for a warm, engaging, and judgment-free childbirth education series designed for pregnant people and their support person to attend together. We’ll explore pregnancy & birth options, labour and birth, preparing for the unexpected, postpartum recovery, feeding your baby, newborn care, and early parenting—with a Calgary-area focus. Expect relatable stories, practical tools, and space for your questions. Join us to learn, laugh, and connect as you prepare to meet your baby and step into parenthood, supported by two experienced facilitators with over 20 years of combined expertise in birth and parenting support.
Rural Peer Group (Mondays)
Starts September 14, 2026 (Mondays); 1:00 - 3:00 pm
Living rurally with a new baby can mean facing perinatal mood challenges without much support close to home. This weekly group meets on Zoom and gives you a safe, supportive space to talk through anxiety, depression, overwhelm, or anger related to perinatal mood disorders, whether or not you have a formal diagnosis. Guided by a trained facilitator, you'll explore coping strategies, self care, and shared experiences while connecting with other moms who understand what you're going through. Register here and you'll receive a follow up phone call to make sure the group is a good fit for you.
Rural Peer Group (Thursdays)
Starts September 17, 2026 (Thursdays); 6:00 - 8:00 pm
Living rurally with a new baby can mean facing perinatal mood challenges without much support close to home. This weekly group meets on Zoom and gives you a safe, supportive space to talk through anxiety, depression, overwhelm, or anger related to perinatal mood disorders, whether or not you have a formal diagnosis. Guided by a trained facilitator, you'll explore coping strategies, self care, and shared experiences while connecting with other moms who understand what you're going through. Register here and you'll receive a follow up phone call to make sure the group is a good fit for you.