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"Opening your child to the world through optimal challenge, regulated presence, and trust in capability "
ADVENTURES THAT BUILD
BRAINS AND BONDS
RAD DADS is Australia's leading platform for evidence-based, father-engaged child development, supporting fathers from pregnancy through early childhood (0-8 years). Grounded in Activation Relationship Theory, attachment science, play therapy, bush play principles and interpersonal neurobiology, we help dads become their child's primary activation figure—encouraging healthy exploration, building confidence through challenge, and strengthening the father-child bond through shared adventure.
Our model combines community programs (bush-based and adventure playgroups, sensory play sessions, and relational experiences), a digital learning hub with research-backed resources and neuroscience insights, and peer networks where engaged fathers connect locally and online. Drawing on three decades of fatherhood research, Rad Dads recognise that every shared adventure literally shapes developing brains while creating relationships that last a lifetime. We're not just supporting fathers—we're building the next generation of brave, resilient, capable humans.
What is Activation Theory?
Activation theory, developed by psychologist Daniel Paquette, recognizes that fathers play a unique role in child development by encouraging children to take risks, explore, and engage with the world through adventurous play. While attachment theory emphasizes providing safety and comfort, activation theory highlights how fathers push children toward healthy challenge—through rough-and-tumble play, physical activities, and experiences that stretch their capabilities in supportive ways. RAD DADS integrates activation theory as a core principle, empowering fathers to lean into their natural strengths as catalysts for exploration and courage-building while remaining emotionally attuned, helping children develop resilience, confidence, and the ability to navigate uncertainty with a secure relational foundation.
The Optimal Activation Zone
Finding the sweet spot between too much protection and too much risk - where growth happens.
UNDER ACTIVATED
Risk: Anxiety, passivity, withdrawal
Overprotection prevents children from developing confidence and learning to handle challenges.
Cause: Low risk encouragement, excessive hovering
OPTIMAL
Sweet Spot: Confidence, prudent exploration, healthy risk-taking
Children feel capable and secure, taking calculated risks with dad's support nearby.
Balance: High encouragement + Appropriate supervision
OVER ACTIVATED
Risk: Recklessness, aggression, poor impulse control
Insufficient limits and supervision lead to excessive risk-taking without learning regulation.
Cause: Unclear limits, insufficient monitoring
The "Arm's Length Plus" Principle
Research shows optimal fathering happens at "slightly more than arm's length" - close enough to protect, far enough to allow independent mastery. This distance itself teaches confidence: "I believe you can do this."
Kinder Play Gyms
Join us for our Kinder Play sessions where dads can dive into the fun of soft play while creating lasting bonds with their little ones. It’s a perfect opportunity to play, learn, and grow together in a safe and engaging environment. Come and experience joy of parenting in a playful!
PROGRAMS
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
“An enthusiastic crew changing the culture of daddin’ in the Macedon ranges for the better through deep and holistic relationship engagement and with other dads, the children and the mother to improve mental and physical health for both the dad and the whole family.’
‘The connections and community of Rad Dad's is amazing. Being a new dad it was very hard for find like minded people and other dads who are going through the same things.’
GET IN TOUCH
General Inquiries
For any inquiries or questions, please fill out the following form, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
info@raddads.com.au
Tel: 0406 020 577