PACE for PARENTS: Module 1 (1/2) – OPEN COURSE

This is the first instalment of our two-part PACE for Parents programme. All participants must complete Module One before attending Module Two, as this session establishes the shared understanding and boundaries required for safe, effective learning.

Both modules should be booked together.

** If a session is missed, credits are not carried over - a new session will need to be booked **

(Please scroll down for FAQs)

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Why Choose This Course?

• Connection Before Control: Discover how prioritising connection and regulation opens the door for meaningful boundary-setting without triggering survival responses.
• Grounded in Proven Science: Gain accessible insights into attachment theory, brain development, Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), and Dr. Donald Winnicott’s "Good Enough Parenting".
• Real-World Application: Learn how to weave the P.A.C.E. mindset into everyday moments—bedtimes, school runs, and high-stress escalations.
• Carer-Centred Support: Address "blocked care," caregiver fatigue, and emotional burnout in a compassionate, non-judgmental environment.
• Interactive & Reflective: Engaging breakout sessions, reflective group exercises, and practical tools you can implement immediately.

Key Modules & Takeaways

• Module 1: Foundations of Trauma & Attachment – Understand how developmental trauma shapes brain structure, cortisol levels, and relational trust.
• Module 2: The P.A.C.E. Stance in Action – Master Playfulness (reducing shame), Acceptance (separating feelings from behaviour), Curiosity (wondering without judgment), and Empathy (feeling with the child).
• Module 3: Co-Regulation & Therapeutic Skills – Practical strategies for emotional containment, non-verbal communication, and repair after conflict.
• Module 4: Carer Well-being & Self-Reflection – Identify personal triggers, recognise signs of blocked care, and build sustainable support systems.

What this course is not

To ensure safety and clarity, PACE for Parents is not:

• A space to discuss individual cases or personal family situations

• Therapy, counselling, or one-to-one intervention

• A forum for advice or guidance about relationships with social services, legal processes or court proceedings

This course is designed as structured, group-based parenting education, suitable for local authority commissioning and wider family support pathways.

Programme structure

It is essential that all participants begin with Module One, as this establishes shared understanding and boundaries. Attending Module Two without this foundation may feel overwhelming and is not recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the PACE for Parents training?
PACE for Parents is a practical, trauma-informed course based on Dan Hughes’ PACE model designed to help parents connect emotionally and support their child’s regulation and attachment.

2. Who is PACE for Parents aimed at?
This training is ideal for current parents/adoptive parents, guardians, and family members supporting (or applying to support) children who may have experienced trauma or have attachment needs, helping build secure, emotionally safe family relationships.

3. How will PACE for Parents support my child?
PACE empowers parents to respond to challenging behaviours with connection instead of control, supporting emotional regulation, reducing conflict, and fostering safer, trust-filled attachments at home.

4. What does the PACE for Parents course include?
The foundations of the PACE approach. It includes live instruction, real-life examples, guided exercises, and practical tools to begin applying Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity, and Empathy at home.

5. Is the PACE for Parents training evidence-based?
Yes, the PACE model is grounded in attachment theory, neuroscience, and decades of clinical practice. Families report greater emotional connection, better behaviour regulation, and more peaceful parenting after using it.

6. How do I book the PACE for Parents training?
Book both Module 1 and 2, add them to your basket, and complete payment. You’ll receive confirmation and access details by email so you can join the live online sessions.

What others say

You can read feedback from parents and carers who have attended our training HERE.

Format, CPD & Resources

• Delivery: Live training via Zoom

• Format: Taught input, small group work, paired activities and whole-group discussion

CPD / Learning Recognition

Participants receive a certificate of attendance and downloadable resources to support reflection and learning records where required.

• Resources: a PDF of the course slides is provided.  An extensive resource library of downloads can be purchased separately.

Those wishing to pursue formal certification in Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP) or to explore PACE in more depth are invited to visit the founder’s website.