Building Stronger Partnerships Through Surf Therapy: Caregiver Session in Hout Bay
Caregivers from the Hout Bay Waves for Change site came together for a shared experience that deepened understanding, connection, and support for children participating in the programme.
On the 9th of May Waves for Change (W4C) hosted a caregiver engagement session with parents and caregivers from the Hout Bay site, bringing together 35 parents for a day of connection, learning, and shared experience. The session focused on introducing caregivers to Waves for Change, mission, vision and values, and creating stronger partnerships between families and the programme. Caregivers learned about how Surf Therapy supports children’s emotional well-being, and the importance of creating safe, supportive, and caring spaces for children. The session also helped caregivers better understand the value of the programme, empowering them to encourage consistent attendance and actively support their children’s participation.
As part of the experience, caregivers participated in the Take 5 routine led by W4C coaches, giving them the opportunity to experience first-hand what a typical programme session feels like for their children.
Creating strong relationships with caregivers is vital for building safe support systems around children. By helping parents and caregivers better understand Surf Therapy and the role it plays in emotional well-being, the session strengthened trust and partnership between families and Waves for Change.
The experience also highlighted how play, movement, and connection can create positive third spaces for children to regulate emotions, build confidence, and develop healthy relationships. When caregivers understand and experience these activities themselves, they are better equipped to support children both inside and outside the programme environment.
This shared understanding helps create a consistent circle of care around each child, reinforcing the mission of Waves for Change to provide accessible mental health and psychosocial support through Surf Therapy.
One of the most meaningful moments of the day came as caregivers joined in the activities together, laughing, moving, and connecting through the Take 5 exercises just as the children do, during programme sessions.
The session created space not only for learning, but also for joy and togetherness. Through shared play and conversation, caregivers were able to better understand the emotional and social benefits their children experience during Surf Therapy sessions, while also strengthening connections with one another and the Waves for Change team.
“It was powerful to see parents fully engaging in the activities and experiencing the programme for themselves. It helped build understanding, trust, and connection around the children we support.” Annelissa Mhloli, W4C Social Worker
📍 Location: Hout Bay, Cape Town
👥 Programme involved: Waves for Change Hout Bay Site
📸 Photos and videos credit: Image courtesy of Waves for Change
Learn more about how Waves for Change uses Surf Therapy to support young people’s emotional well-being and strengthen communities through connection, care, and play – waves-for-change.org
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