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5 Shifts for Dads

Learn how to stay calm, connected, and confident when things get hard — from a dad who’s been through it.

April 21 | GroundPlay Therapy Works
45 min talk + open discussion with Parent Coach, Mike Lepis

The event is FREE but space is limited. Please RSVP and let us know you are coming. 


If you’re raising a neurodivergent kid — ADHD, autism, sensory differences, anxiety — you already know:

  • This isn’t the parenting road you pictured.

  • It’s incredible (they say)… and it can also be exhausting.

  • Some days you feel steady and connected.

  • Other days you’re reacting, second-guessing, or just trying to get through it.

I’ve been there.


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Dad to dad

This is a different kind of conversation for dads.

Not another parenting class.

Not a list of strategies you’ll forget by next week.

This is about understanding what’s actually going on underneath your child’s behavior —and your own reactions — so things start to make more sense.

And when things make more sense, they get easier to navigate.


What We’ll Cover

The 5 shifts that changed how I show up as a dad:

Behavior → Brain First
Start seeing what’s driving behavior, not just reacting to it.

Control → Connection
Build trust and safety instead of trying to manage everything.

Judgment → Curiosity
Move from frustration to understanding.

Reacting → Regulating
Learn how to steady yourself when things get hard.

Old Rules → New Rules
Let go of outdated expectations and create what actually works for your family.

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What You’ll Get

  • A short, practical talk (45 minutes, slightly NSFW)
  • Real-life examples you’ll recognize immediately
  • Simple tools you can use right away (or download later)
  • Open discussion with other dads
  • A chance to connect with guys who get it

 

Profile

Weekend 1: Understanding the Storm

One of the fastest ways to build a better connection is by seeing the world through their eyes for a moment. Or at least doing your best. In this exercise, pick a scenario and walk through it as your kid.

Remember–they are having a hard time, not trying to give you a hard time.

Field Study

Weekend 2: Connection over Control

If you look at sticker charts and timers and just laugh, this is for you. This exercise let's you observe your child without judgement.

Plus, dads are naturally good and trying to get to the bottom of something. This a step to a better understanding. 

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Weekend 3: Building Hope

Chances are if you are struggling, you have dropped your extracurricular activities. Mindlessly scrolling screens is not the answer. 

Do this short exercise to rediscover the  the activities that engage your brain, your body, and make you feel better. 

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Who It’s For

  • Dads raising neurodivergent kids
  • Dads feeling stuck, reactive, or burned out
  • Dads who want more calm and connection at home
  • Dads who don’t want to do this alone
  • Parents who identify as a dad

Event Details

📍 Location: Groundplay, 2029 NE Cesar E. Chavez Blvd
Portland, OR 97212

📅 Date: April 21

⏱ Time: 6PM

💬 Format: Talk + discussion + bring a chair :)

The event is free but space is limited. Please email me to reserve your spot


Join Us

If you’ve been looking for a way to understand what’s going on, find a few tools that actually help, and connect with other dads doing the work—

This is a good place to start. Hope to see you! Let me know if you have any questions. Email Mike


– Mike | Parent Coach | Level Up Dads

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