Our Childs Voice – 31 July 2009
By Parentline, 4 March 2010
COURSES BOOST PARENTS’ SKILLS
By Cathy Holland – Published in the Waikato Times 31st July 2009There’s the delightful advertisement of a first time mother being handed her new born baby and then reaching out for the accompanying Parenting Manual. For most of us, parenting is probably the hardest job we ever take on. The expectation is that we all are inherently good parents, when clearly that is not always true. With the pressures of modern living, there are few opportunities to learn exactly what parenting involves.
The government has announced a cash injection for positive parenting programmes, for community initiatives working with parents.
Parentline facilitates three programmes:
• Parents Building Bridges, a group programme, explores the impact of separation on children. The programme offers practical tips and raises pertinent questions that are openly discussed by parents. It also covers the Family Court system and applications for Parenting Orders.
• The Parenting Programme is designed to meet specific needs. Parent’s learn to understand children’s behaviours, the art of discipline, parenting styles, having fun with children and how children tell us what they want. It is an opportunity for parents to ask the questions we have never dared to ask. Recent participants were comforted to learn their anxieties and perceived shortcomings were experienced by others. Participants gain new skills to deal with issues that confront parents daily.
• Te Hiringa Tipu is a whanau-based programme for Maori families offering opportunities for parents and children to work together to strengthen the family unit. The values support safety, protection and nurturing, on the basis all tamariki have the right to live free of violence, fear, abuse and neglect.
Direct programme inquiries to intake co-ordinator Lisa Herewini, 07 839 4536.
