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SMS4Dads

Free text messages, support, information and tips, especially designed for expecting and new dads.

Dad holding baby and smiling

“I work long hours – so that reminder throughout the day at a random time to make you think of your baby and your partner is huge.”

Dads find the perinatal period hard too, and often find there are few supports in place. PANDA has partnered with SMS4dads to connect more dads to this valuable and free service.

SMS4dads is designed specifically for dads and has been created by researchers and health professionals. The free text messages help dads feel more supported and included in their parenting journey.

Research shows that although they have a major influence on parenting decisions most information is currently directed at mums, and there’s not a lot that speaks directly to dads. That’s why SMS4dads was designed to acknowledge the important role dads play in growing up their babies & children.

SMS4dads sends text messages with tips, info and links to your phone just when you and your baby need it.

Plus, if it’s not the right time, you can refer back to the text messages when you need them.

Sign up for SMS4Dads

“This has been a massive support for me. Every tip has helped form the dad I've become in some small way.”

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SMS4DeadlyDads

SMS4DeadlyDads sends short texts with tips, info and links to your phone just when you and your baby need it.

If you identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, you’re sent a unique set of messages designed especially for First Nations dads.

The messages help dads:

  • connect with their bub
  • support mum
  • and look after themselves

You can sign up online by entering your mobile number and your baby’s due or actual date of birth.

SMS4DeadlyDads has been co-designed by the SMS4dads First Nations team Uncle Mick Adams, Craig Hammond and Dave Edwards in consultation with an Advisory Group of senior First Nations men representing Aboriginal Controlled Health organisations.

What do the messages say?

You’ll receive three types of messages:

Messages from your baby…
“Although it’s noisy in here, I will be able to hear your voice from about 20 weeks. Try telling me about the things we will do together.”

Messages with links to other information…
“If you’re both up for it, then there’s usually no problem with having sex during pregnancy. It will not harm the baby. Visit this LINK for more info.”

Messages to check in on how you’re feeling…
Approximately every three weeks a ‘How’s it going?” interactive text is sent timed for common challenges such as baby crying or work-family balance. Dads can reply with a click and be directed to online help or more information.

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PANDA acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land where we work and live. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging. We celebrate the stories, culture and traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders of all communities who also work and live on this land.

At PANDA, we embrace the power of diversity through inclusion. We strive to foster belonging and empowerment at work. We create relevant messaging and marketing for our diverse consumers. We listen and engage with our diverse communities. And we value collaboration with our diverse suppliers.

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While PANDA has exercised due care in ensuring the accuracy of the material contained on this website, the information is made available on the basis that PANDA is not providing professional advice on a particular matter. This website is not a substitute for independent professional advice. Nothing contained in this website is intended to be used as medical advice, nor should it be used as a substitute for your own health professional's advice.

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