Parents

There are several keys to being a good parent - one is information and another is support.

This website gives general information about topics of interest to parents, and encourages visitors to find support through family support programs in your community. Neither information nor support can solve all problems - we encourage you to get professional help whenever it is warranted. No website can take the place of a doctor, counselor, or other professional.

                                                     Parenting is hard - and there is little or no training.
                      We hope the information here helps you enjoy your most important role - parent!

FAMILY SUPPORT PROGRAMS

WHY SHOULD YOU ATTEND A FAMILY SUPPORT PROGRAM?

• You want to change the way you relate to your children. You don’t like screaming at them or hitting them, but you are not sure what else to do.
• You feel alone, like there is no one you can talk to about what is going on at home.
• You have a friend or a family member who attends the group and is asking you to come along with them.
• The courts or Children and Youth Services have said that you must attend the group as part of your family service plan.
• Your child is changing, entering a new phase, and you are not sure what parts of his behavior are normal and what might need help.
• You did not see examples of good parenting when you were a child, and you do not want to repeat the same mistakes with your children.
• You want your children to have a chance to play and learn with other kids in the child care program.
• It is a chance for you to relax, talk with other parents and have a break from your children. There might even be food or other activities going on!
• You completed parenting classes and now want a chance to practice what you learned, getting feedback from other parents in the group.
• The facilitator can point you to services in your community that can help you and your family.
• You love your children and want to be the best parent you can be.