Ask any professional who works with families and they’ll tell you the same thing: parents are overwhelmed. They want to do the right thing but are often buried under conflicting advice, unrealistic expectations and guilt. What they need is a simple and effective framework they can actually use when things get tough. That’s where 1-2-3 Magic® & Emotion Coaching comes in.
For more than two decades, 1-2-3 Magic® & Emotion Coaching has helped parents reduce conflict, build connection and manage challenging behaviour without shouting or constant negotiating. It works because it is clear, evidence-based and easy to implement. Families do not need more theory. They need tools that are practical and proven.
The two foundations
At the heart of 1-2-3 Magic® & Emotion Coaching are two key concepts:
Children can be taught to respond more flexibly when they are frustrated or upset
Parents can be taught simple skills they can use at the critical moment.
This combination makes it possible to interrupt difficult behaviour in the moment and build long-term emotional regulation over time. It’s not about being permissive. It’s not about being harsh. It’s about using calm authority, clear limits and emotion coaching to create lasting change.
What professionals appreciate
Professionals who support families often tell us what makes 1-2-3 Magic® & Emotion Coaching stand out:
It gives parents a structure they can remember under pressure
It reduces arguments and repeated instructions
It helps parents stay calm even when children are not
It works across a range of behaviours, not just tantrums.
It is also suitable for a wide range of families, including those dealing with additional needs (see our 1-2-3 Magic® for Special Needs course). The flexibility of the model means it can be adapted without losing its core principles. ?? (Not sure about this sentence)
Why parents stick with it
Parents often describe the relief they feel when they realise they don’t have to yell, plead or give in to keep the peace. Once they begin using the counting system and emotion coaching strategies consistently, they report fewer power struggles and more cooperation. Importantly, they begin to feel more confident in their role.
"I have been working with children and families for over 22 years. The 1-2-3 Magic® and Emotional Coaching is the best thing I have ever come across. It is easy and families who I work with can do it. By session 2 parents have the tools to change their parenting and their children’s lives for the better. I would love everyone to do the course." — Kathrine Hicks, Family Support Case Manager, Australian Red Cross
"Very engaging and important content, which was delivered in an easy to understand and digestible manner. Any practitioner who works with children or parents would benefit from the 1-2-3 Magic & Emotion Coaching training." — Lara Lynch, UnitingCare Community
Training that builds capability
We train child and family professionals to deliver 1-2-3 Magic® & Emotion Coaching with clarity and confidence. The practitioner training includes group discussion, role-play, videos and practical application. Participants walk away with the skills to coach parents effectively and support long-term behaviour change in families.
Whether you are working in early intervention, family support, child protection or counselling, this is training you can use immediately.
Upcoming training dates and details
WEBINARS:
Friday 4 July
Friday 18 July (Special Needs Adaptation - half day)
Wednesday 6 August
Thursday 4 September
Thursday 16 October (Special Needs Adaptation - half day)
Friday 17 October
Full day online training, 9am to 4pm. More information and book here.