Therapeutic parenting is a warm, structured way of caring for children who have experienced trauma, loss or disrupted early relationships. It puts connection first, helping a child feel safe enough to manage big feelings and to trust the adults around them. It is especially helpful for adoptive families, kinship carers, foster carers and special guardians, though any parent can benefit.
The PACE approach
Our support draws on the widely used PACE approach developed by Dr Dan Hughes, which describes an attitude of:
- Playfulness — lightness and warmth that build connection.
- Acceptance — accepting the feelings beneath behaviour.
- Curiosity — wondering about what a child is experiencing.
- Empathy — staying alongside a child in difficult moments.
What support looks like
We work with you to understand your child's behaviour as communication, and to respond in ways that build safety and trust rather than escalate. Sessions may cover managing everyday flashpoints, repairing relationships after ruptures, and looking after yourself so you can keep offering steady, nurturing care.
Support is offered one to one with parents and carers, and through our group workshops. It complements any direct therapy your child receives.
Next step
To find out more, email hello@origamiwings.org. If you are an adoptive or special guardianship family, see our adoption and SGS support.