About Us

Peter Denman is the founder of Learner Dad. Married to Heather, their son James was born in September 2005. Soon after, Peter gave up a corporate career in marketing to complete post graduate studies at the Australian College of Applied Psychology.

It is this experience as a Counsellor and a first time Dad that led Peter to set up Learner Dad. He was amazed to find the lack of information, support and resources for new Dads during the transition to fatherhood. Peter now combines running Learner Dad Workshops with career transition consulting and being a part-time stay home Dad.

Peter's Experience as a Learner Dad

"I was not someone who was instantly comfortable with babies. In fact, I avoided contact with babies as much as possible because I thought that I would drop them! When my wife was pregnant, she read lots of books and encouraged me to join in, but I was like most guys and avoided the books. I just asked her to give me a summary and show me the pictures.

The birth was surreal. Seeing James as a brand new baby was an indescribable moment. I remember coming home from the hospital and not knowing what to do next. The first 8 months were really hard. James had an undiagnosed Strep B infection in his gut which meant that he woke up several times a night screaming in agony. The sleep deprivation affected my work, which created more stress. Heather and I supported each other when it did get tough, but were also able to share in the fun of having a new baby together.

I made plenty of mistakes as a Learner Dad. Two key things I learnt were the value of communication and negotiation. Sometimes there will be compromises and sacrifices, but if you both have the attitude of wanting to do the best for each other and your baby, then parenthood is a great experience."

To read more of my thoughts on being a Learner Dad view my blog http://learnerdad.blogspot.com/