Rachel had little support as a young, first-time mum of a toddler with autism

Rachel, a Queensland mum of two who lives with her partner, 18-year-old son, and 2-year-old daughter, has experienced first-hand how Stepping Stones Triple P can be life-changing. When she gave birth to her son, Jason, Rachel faced the daunting task of raising a child with autism as a sole parent and with very little support.

Discovering Stepping Stones Triple P

Rachel completed the face-to-face version of Stepping Stones Triple P when Jason was 3 years old and attending AEIOU – an early intervention support service for children with autism. The Triple P program provided her with practical strategies to support Jason’s development, manage challenging behaviours, and help with life skills while reinforcing the importance of self-care as a parent or carer.

“I was young and navigating motherhood alone. Getting this support was the start of something that would help our entire family for life,” Rachel says.

A stronger bond, a more confident parent

Triple P’s evidence-based strategies helped Rachel learn how to build a strong connection with Jason, encourage his independence, and manage everyday parenting stresses. One of the most valuable lessons she learned was to pick her battles.

“I realised I don’t have to intervene in everything – only when something is unsafe. That changed everything. It allowed me to be a more fun and tolerant parent, which made a huge difference in my relationship with Jason.”

“I did the course when Jason was young, and I still use the things I learned daily. It gives you confidence that stays with you for life. You always have this toolbox in the back of your mind to help you navigate parenting. Making the program free for every family will mean so much to so many,” Rachel says.

Encouraging others and breaking the stigma

Rachel encourages all parents and carers—especially those raising children with disability—to take advantage of Triple P’s suite of free programs.

“I’ve been telling people for years to do this course. I think everyone should—whether you’re a parent, an aunt, an uncle, a grandparent, expecting a child, a support worker for children with disabilities, or even just a friend to someone with kids. Everyone can benefit.”

She also wants other parents and carers to know that it’s okay to seek help.

“There's a lot of stigma around doing a parenting course, how it’s only for ‘bad parents’. But you do the course if you want to be given all the best information about child development in the most efficient way.

“You do this course if you want to be a more confident parent. There are many reasons to do the program and no reasons to not do it. Jason is now preparing to transition into Supported Independent Living accommodation.”

For parents of children with disabilities, having access to free, evidence-based programs is invaluable. Like Rachel, many parents and carers find that the skills they learn don’t just help in the moment—they help their family thrive for life.

Parents and carers can sign up for Stepping Stones Triple P Online now.