New '7 Types of Dads' Video by the Support for Fathers Project

We're excited to share this brand-new Support for Fathers video in the lead up to Father's Day on 5 September.

We've created this resource based on conversations we've had with dads/father-figures, families and support services around Australia, and extensive research about all things dad-related.

You can read about the Support for Fathers project, subscribe to our e-newsletter and download free resources at supportforfathers.com.au

About the making of the video

We loved working with videographer Steven Beck, from Steven Beck Media, to create this animated video,  but Steven took the project one step further, and recruited his 12 year-old daughter, Abby, to help out! We talked to Steven and Abby about their father-daughter collaboration.

Steven

“I have always tried to encourage my kids to learn new skills in many areas of life - that’s what dads are meant to do aren’t they?  So, when I had this opportunity, I thought why not ask my daughter to help me?  I have seen her creative skills develop over the years, but as she is getting older, I noticed her attention span and level of detail had increased.

I asked her to help me come up with some ideas and concepts to suit the script.  I was pleasantly surprised when we started to work together at how many ideas she was coming up with; things I just didn’t even think about.

It was such a great way to create the space for some father-daughter bonding time, but also to be productive at the same time. 

Sometimes, as parents we think we know more and can come up with better things than our kids, but I don’t think that’s the case at all.  I think we need to gently guide them in their gifts so they can grow a belief in themselves and their abilities.” 

Abby

“Over the last few years my dad has taught me his video and photo editing skills. The Support for Fathers videos was the first time I had used animation and animated characters to create videos.

He asked if I would be interested in helping him come up with ideas and stuff.  At first, I was reluctant, but agreed to help when he said I would get some extra pocket money.

I ended up having lots of fun doing them. It was a great learning experience as well as bonding time with my dad.  I helped mostly coming up with the different characters and the ideas for scenes.

I found this quite enjoyable because I’m a creative person and I like creating stories. So, in the end it wasn’t about the money, it was about spending quality time with my dad and learning good computer skills.”