Neil’s Full Circle Moment

When Neil and his wife became primary carers for their young grandson, Luca, they thought they already knew everything there was to know about raising children.

After all, they’d raised their own family years ago.

So when they were required to attend a Circle of Security program as part of a court process, Neil wasn’t impressed.

“At first, I was angry,” he admits. “We’d already raised our kids and thought, ‘Why do we have to do this?’.”

But by the second session, something shifted.

“My wife and I realised this was actually good for us.”

As grandparents stepping back into a parenting role, the program helped them see Luca’s behaviour through a different lens. Instead of focusing on managing difficult moments, they learnt to understand what might be happening underneath.

“It’s taught me to read his actions and feelings so much better. I can see what he’s trying to tell me now.”

For Neil, one of the most valuable tools was learning about the Circle itself and how children’s behaviour is often a reflection of their need for connection, reassurance and support.

“To finally see the Circle was such an awesome tool. It’s helped me be the best Pop I can be.”

The learning changed the way Neil responded when Luca was struggling. Strategies he once relied on, such as sending him to his room for timeout, have been replaced with approaches that focus on understanding and connection.

“I handle things very differently now.”

Perhaps most importantly, the experience strengthened the bond between grandfather and grandson.

What began as something Neil felt forced to do became an opportunity to build a deeper understanding of the little boy in his care.

His advice to other grandparents unexpectedly raising children again is simple:

“If you haven’t had little people around for a while, it’s the best thing you could ever do.”

Neil also credits much of the program’s impact to facilitator Lisa, whose approach helped participants feel comfortable from the beginning.

“I’ve done a lot of courses in my time, both personally and in business. The way Lisa handled and approached us all was amazing. She made everyone feel respected. She’s one of the most amazing teachers and human beings I’ve dealt with in a very long time.”

For Neil, Circle of Security wasn’t just another course. It was a chance to come full circle himself, learning new ways to support his grandson and strengthen a relationship that means the world to him.

Circle of Security helps parents and caregivers better understand their child’s emotional needs and strengthens their relationship. Circle of Security is proudly delivered by the expert parenting team at Communicare, feel free to get in touch with us about attending our next session.