Information Pack for Professionals

 

About using this pack

 

Who is this pack for? 

 

This information pack is intended for any professional working with parents or caring for children.  It may be of particular relevance to:

 

• ·        Social workers and health professionals.
• ·        Teachers, childminders, play workers and other educationalists.

Adoption, fostering and interven 

• ·        tion. specialists supporting families.
• ·        Community development workers.
• ·        Local authorities and public bodies.
• ·        Voluntary sector agencies.

What does this pack cover?

 

This pack contains general information sheets about Parent Network Scotland.  They explain how we run our courses and why we use a special kind of course facilitator to deliver them.  They provide an insight into why we work the way we do and offer you opportunities to work in partnership with us.  The sheets also provide quotes from parents as we believe their voices illustrate the value of our work better than anything we can say about ourselves. 

 

This pack contains a sheet on How you can work in partnership with us.  It sets out what we as organisations should expect from each other, in order to best serve the parents we are working together to support. 

 

Our Information leaflet emphasises that our courses are informal, supportive and above all fun.  It reinforces that although real change takes time and effort, parents are not alone and that small changes can yield fantastic results.

 

About the course is a series of sheets which offer further information about individual courses.  They highlight who might benefit most from the course and why, then briefly describe the course contents.

 

We trust you share our passion for enabling parents and supporting families. If you are interested in hosting a course or facilitation training, please use the enclosed Course Proposal form to register your details with us.  Alternatively, you are welcome to contact us directly to discuss your ideas.

 

 

 

 

About Parent Network Scotland

 

 Our vision is of a Scotland where family relationships are rich in mutual trust and respect, between children, parents and carers.

 

Our mission, as a parent led organisation, is to improve family relationships for parents, carers and children.  We do this by offering support in changing patterns of behaviour and dealing more positively with the challenges of family life.

 

Our values include respect for others, openness and honesty and maintaining high quality in all we do.

 

 

Our history

 

Parent Network started in London in 1986 and began working in Scotland in 1991.  In 1999 we became independent when Parent Network joined our sister organisation Parentline Plus.  Despite maintaining close links, we established ourselves as a Scottish charity and limited company.  We are supported by the Scottish Executive and The Big Lottery Fund, as well as a range of statutory and voluntary agencies who purchase our services.

 

Our work

 

Our core work is delivering courses and workshops in parenting skills to parents and professionals.  Our courses are informal, practical and participative.  We encourage parents to recognise and celebrate their existing skills, as well as developing new strategies for the future.  In addition we:

 

• ·        Provide information and other resources to parents and professionals.
• ·        Work in partnership with voluntary and statutory agencies to support and educate families.
• ·        Use our experience to develop and inform national and local policies on family issues.

 

Our staff

 

Throughout Scotland, our network of trained Facilitators lead our courses and advise parents on setting up local support groups.  They are supported by a national staff team with a Head Office in Edinburgh.  This team co-ordinates, trains and supports facilitators and ensures that all our courses are quality assured.  They also work to constantly develop and promote the work of Parent Network Scotland.

 

 

 

About how we run our courses

 

 What is special about our courses? 

 

Our courses run within small, friendly groups, guided and supported by a parent facilitator.  This enables parents to explore issues that are important to them in a safe and supportive environment.  Our courses nurture the group to ‘do the work’ themselves, so that change is a personally generated process, rather than something parents feel has been imposed upon them.

 

What are our courses like?

 

Our core course Parenting Matters, explores key issues around communication between parent and child.  It looks at setting boundaries, the power of language, self esteem and maintaining positive relationships.  Other courses look at more specific issues such as teenagers, ADHD or talking about drugs.  About our courses is a full guide to every course we offer, with each individually described on a separate sheet. 

 

Courses generally run as a series of weekly sessions of approximately 2 hours. 

Parents are guided through a series of exercises and activities which are designed to examine parent’s individual experiences of parenting and being parented.  Our facilitators appreciate the strong feelings and recollections this process can stimulate.  They are trained to support groups in appropriately sharing and exploring these experiences, learning from each other in a focused and non-threatening way.  We recognise every parent is different, so we are able to adapt our courses to reflect individual needs, such as literacy, language or support issues.

 

Parents are encouraged to recognise and celebrate their existing skills and explore new strategies for the future.  Groups work together to explore fresh approaches and support each other in make changes which feel meaningful to them.  Experiential learning is reinforced with ‘take home’ tasks which consolidate learning between sessions and are reported back to the group.

  

What do parents say about our courses?

 

.. we got to talk about what mattered.. it was relaxed but fun.. just talking and trying out different stuff helped..  the group jelled and everyone supported everyone else… we took advantage of the offer to set up a support group and its great to have folk who know what’s what to bounce ideas off and have a laugh…

Keira, two daughters aged 7 and 11

 

 

About our Support Groups

 

What happens after a course?

 

All parent groups completing one of our courses are offered the opportunity to continue to meet as a support group.  Many parents welcome the opportunity to meet up with other parents from their course at a time and location to suit them. 

 

Support groups offer an informal, friendly environment in which to develop friendships and encourage each other to maintain the positive changes instigated during the course.  They also give parents a chance to look at further needs or issues that have not been fully explored on the course, so enhancing the course experience.

 

We encourage the development of all support groups; however parents of children with special needs may find them particularly useful.  Our parent friendly, holistic approach is especially well suited to encouraging parents in establishing and running their own groups.

 

How to set up a support group

 

The course facilitator will support parents to establish the group and show them how to become self-managing (ongoing support may also be available).  A pack of useful information is provided, which contains the registration form as well as handouts to assist in running a group smoothly, such as:

 

• Ideas for starting and finishing sessions.
• Top up exercises, e.g. Listening Skills, Staying Assertive
• Hints and tips on simple group facilitation skills.

 

Ongoing support

 

Once groups are firmly established, we stay in contact to provide appropriate support, assistance and a simple annual evaluation.  We can also offer specialist input for groups requiring specific assistance in areas such as running events, developing workshops or finding guest speakers.

 

Follow up workshops

 

Some groups wish to continue accessing our workshops on a “one-off” basis, and we have a range of resources we can use to deliver such workshops.  We are happy to develop specific workshop topics to meet parents’ specific needs.

 

 

 

About our Facilitators

 

Who are our Facilitators?

 

All our Facilitators are parents or carers who have been trained and approved through a comprehensive facilitation training program.  Facilitators work on a freelance basis, though many combine this with paid employment in the public and private sectors.  They come from all walks of life and each one has personally attended our core parenting course.

 

What do we expect from our Facilitators?

 

We pride ourselves on the exceptional quality of our courses and facilitation.  Consequently, we carefully select, train and support our Facilitators to ensure:

 

• Empathetic, non-judgemental approach to supporting others thorough personal change.
• Outstanding communication and group working skills.
• A willingness to sensitively and appropriately challenge unhelpful attitudes or behaviours.
• The ability to communicate and maintain personal and group boundaries.
• A commitment to ongoing personal and professional development and the ability to engage in reflective practice.
• A high standard of professional conduct and reflective practice at all times.

 

How do we quality assure our facilitators?

 

All our facilitators will have completed our core course Parenting Matters as well as an intensive 12 day facilitation training programme.  All facilitators complete a Facilitator Assessment prior to approval and are required to maintain a high level of professional practice.  This entails keeping appropriate records, participating in monitoring and evaluation and undertaking ongoing professional development and training.  All facilitators receive ongoing observation, supervision and support from a dedicated Facilitator Supervisor, to ensure all courses maintain excellent standards.

 

I’d had professional training but was feeling out of my depth with the twins, even when I went into “teacher mode”.  I enjoyed the group work and asked about becoming a facilitator.  I’ve been doing it for four years now and I love the variety, the change you see in people as they get comfortable with their way of being a parent.  No course is ever the same.

Sam, twins aged 7

 

 

 

 

 

About how you can work in partnership with us

 

How can you work with us?

 

We recognise we can best improve family relationships in Scotland by working collaboratively with voluntary, statutory and professional agencies.  We bring knowledge, skills, proven courses, information resources and expertise in parenting issues to our partnerships, along with a willingness to share and learn from other organisations.

 

We are open to working in partnership with your organisation by:

 

• ·        Delivering parenting courses to individual parents, client groups or organisations, designed to ‘plug the gaps’ in existing provision. 
• ·        Providing information and resources to assist parents and organisations.
• ·        Delivering training for parent facilitators and supporting them to deliver courses and other services to parents.
• Collaborating on the development of national and local policies relating to education and family life. 
• Supporting local parent participation in relevant forums and groups. 
• Providing quality assurance, monitoring, evaluation and feedback. 

 

What do you need to do to run a course with us?

 

We are happy to discuss specially adapting our courses to suit your organisations individual needs.  We can combine or modify courses to focus upon specific issues or deal with certain issues.  Equally, we are able to adapt group sizes and course delivery to suit the needs of individual participants.  If you wish to host one of our courses, either for parents or professionals, please return the Course Proposal form contained in this pack.  If you wish to discuss adapting a course, please describe your requirements in the additional information section of the proposal.  Alternatively, you are welcome to contact our Development Officer to discuss your options. 

Once you have registered your interest, we will contact you to discuss your requirements in detail.  Our contracts clearly set out what we can expect from each other to help ensure the course is a success.  This helps us both to ensure that the parents we work with gain maximum benefit from the course they will be attending. 

 

We are keen to discuss your ideas as to how we might work in partnership together, so please get in touch.

 

Course Outlines

 

Parenting Matters – 8 weeks

A course for parents, which aims to build up self-confidence.  It does this by giving parents a chance to learn from each other, and to think about themselves as people as well as parents.  A toolkit for parents of children of all ages.

 

Parenting Matters (ADHD) – 8 weeks

This is a version of Parenting Matters which has been substantially adapted to suit the needs of parents who have children with ADHD. We aim to provide a place where parents can talk together and learn from each other to generate ideas on managing their children's behaviour.

 

Getting on with your Child – 8 weeks

Find out how to make being a parent less stressful and more enjoyable. Share experiences with other parents and discover new ways of helping your child make the most of life.

 

Getting on with your Teenager – 8 weeks

The teenage years can be challenging for the whole family. Share experiences with other parents of teenagers and discover new ways of communicating and building a positive relationship with your teenager.

 

Coping with Teenage Issues – 4 weeks

Being the parent of a teenager can be a challenging and confusing time. Here is a chance to develop your skills to deal with issues such as smoking, alcohol, drug-taking, eating and sex.

 

Helping Children Learn – 6 weeks

Learning isn't just something children do at school. Find out how you can help your child develop the skills and confidence for learning and support them through their education.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

New Baby, New Parent – 3 weeks

Come along and share your feelings, needs and concerns as a new parent and find out how you can help your baby's development and enjoy your relationship with your baby.

 

New Baby in the Family – 4 weeks

Having another baby means big changes for the whole family.  This group looks at how you can give your baby the best start in life, look after yourself and help your older children to cope too.

 

Ages & Stages – 4 weeks

Do you find you are always one step behind your kids? This group is for you whatever age your children are, and will help you respond to their needs at different stages of their lives.

 

Supporting Children through

Change & Loss – 3 weeks

How to look after yourself and your children through experiences of change and loss, such as parental separation, family bereavement, moving house etc.

 

Bringing up Children after Splitting Up – 3 weeks

How to work together for the benefit of your children even though you are no longer a couple.

 

Talking about Drugs – 2 weeks

Do you worry about your child taking drugs? This group will help you learn how to talk to your child about drugs and help them stay safe.

 

 

All groups have some common features, e.g. working in the group, supporting and learning from each other.

 

 

 

 

About the course – Parenting Matters

 

Who is it for?

 

Parenting Matters is our most popular course, ideal for any parent or person caring for children in a parenting role.  It is of particular benefit to anyone wanting to improve their understanding of the nature of parenting today, examine their own experiences and explore and value the parenting skills they already have.  It focuses strongly upon communication skills, the power of language, building self esteem and setting limits.  This is our foundation course and is therefore necessary for anyone interested in undertaking Facilitation Training with Parent Network Scotland.  It is also ideal for professionals working with families and wishing to gain a deeper understanding of associated issues and experiences.

 

How long is it? 

 

Parenting Matters runs as a series of 2 hour sessions, spread over 8 weeks.

 

What does it cover?

 

Parenting Matters is a holistic and preventative course.  It allows parents to:

 

• ·        Reflect on their own experiences of parenting and being parented.
• ·        Improve their understanding and appreciation of their own parenting role.
• ·        Practice listening and verbal skills to improve communication.
• ·        Explore strategies and approaches to common family situations.
• ·        Focus on encouraging positive behaviours and attitudes.
• ·        Build self confidence and self esteem as individuals and parents.

 

What is the benefit of doing “Parenting Matters”?

 

Parenting Matters increases participants’ confidence and self-esteem, enabling them to appreciate and develop their own style of parenting.   It’s holistic and preventative approach means parents are better prepared to enjoy the every day challenges and rewards of parenting.  

 

  it made me realise the kind of parent I wanted to be and see how to get there…I saw how much I relied on bribery.. I’ve got a new approaches to setting limits that’s put me back in charge..

Allie, son aged 6

 

 

 

 

About the course – Getting on with your child

 

Who is it for?

 

Getting on with your child is for any parent or carer who wants to improve their communication with their child.  There is particular emphasis on how good communication can reduce and avoid conflict with the family.

 

How long is it?

 

The course runs as a series of 2 hour sessions, spread over 8 weeks.

 

What does it cover?

 

Getting on with your child focuses on key communication skills to improve parents’ ability to have positive and enjoyable relationships with their children.  On this course parents:

 

• ·        Consider their own needs as parents and the needs of their child.
• ·        Reflect on positive and negative communication behaviours.
• ·        Focus on and practice active listening skills.
• ·        Understand and model assertive communication.
• ·        Reinforce and refine positive skills in communication around sensitive issues.

 

What is the benefit of doing “Getting on with your child”?

 

Getting on with your child equips parents and carers with the skills to reduce conflict and deal with it more effectively.  It helps make family life less stressful and more enjoyable.

 

.. Since me and her Mum split, we were always fighting.  She was so angry with me and I’d try to be understanding but we never sorted it properly. I felt we were getting further and further apart, I was scared she’d stop wanting to come and see me.  Doing a course seemed weird at first, but it helped me explain things clearly and listen properly to what she was saying.  We both needed to accept that things can’t be the same as they used to be.  Now when she comes to stay at the flat things are calmer.  It’s not like when I was with her Mum, but it’s still good.  She’s still my wee girl and I still love her.  I’m still her Dad.

Joe, daughter aged 10

 

 

 

 

About the course – Getting on with your teenager

 

 

Who is it for?

 

Getting on with your teenager is for any parent or carer who wants to improve their communication with their teenager.  There is particular emphasis on how good communication can reduce and avoid conflict within the family.  This course sensitively explores issues around privacy, empathy and communication, making specific reference to teenage issues.  It includes an optional session on talking to your teenager about drugs, which emphasises opening lines of communication, rather than any philosophical stance.

 

How long is it?

 

The course runs as a series of 2 hour sessions, spread over 8 weeks.

 

What does it cover?

 

Getting on with your teenager focuses on key communication skills to improve parents’ ability to have positive and enjoyable relationships with their teenage children.  On this course parents:

 

• ·        Consider their own needs as parents and the needs of their teenager.
• ·        Reflect on positive and negative communication behaviours.
• ·        Explore and practice active listening techniques.
• ·        Understand and model assertive communication and setting limits.
• ·        Reinforce sensitivity and empathy in communication around teenager issues.

 

What is the benefit of doing “Getting on with your teenager”?

 

Getting on with your teenager equips parents and carers with the skills to reduce conflict and deal with it more effectively.  It offers fresh skills and strategies to help make family life with a teenager less stressful and more enjoyable.

 

Paul was a nightmare, we never knew what he was up to and couldn’t seem to set any effective boundaries.  We both went on the course and I’m not saying it worked miracles but it did help us to approach things slightly differently, plus when we hear about other people’s experiences, some of Paul’s antics seemed quite tame in comparison. Whatever happens hopefully we’ll be better prepared for Mark now..

Ann, mother to Gretchen 17, Paul 15 and Mark 12

 

 

 

 

About the course – Coping with teenage issues

Who is it for?

 

Coping with teenage issues is for parents or carers wishing to deal confidently and appropriately with the specific issues encountered when caring for more independent young people.  It sensitively explores issues around privacy, empathy and communication.  It pays specific attention to common parental concerns such as sex, drugs, alcohol and eating disorders.  This course is especially appropriate for separated or step-parents, foster carers or adopters who have limited experience of young people’s later development. 

 

How long is it?

 

This course runs as a series of 2 hour sessions, spread over 4 weeks.

 

What does it cover?

 

Coping with teenage issues encourages parents and carers to develop a skilled and empathetic approach towards the complex issues facing today’s teenagers.  On the course, parents:

 

• ·        Consider the social and biological and factors underling teenage behaviour.
• ·        Relate their own experiences and beliefs to teenage issues.
• ·        Explore the choices and lifestyle options faced by modern teenagers.
• ·        Practice how to communicate and negotiate with teenagers constructively.

 

What is the benefit of “Coping with teenage issues”?

 

Coping with teenage issues allows parents to explore, better understand and rehearse responses to complex teenage issues.  Parents and carers gain increased confidence and new skills to enable better communication and negotiation with their teenager.

 

..Some days it felt like we were on different planets, no way to connect.  I’d say no - he’d do it anyway, I’d say ‘you’re grounded’ - he’d go out regardless.  His clothes stank of smoke, he had all these female ‘mates’ hanging around - he’d just shrug and walk away from my questions.  Now there’s some talking instead of grunts, it’s not a miracle but its progress ….

Mahmood, son aged 15

 

 

 

About the course – Helping children learn

 

Who is it for?

 

Helping children learn is for parents and carers of school age children who wish to support their child through the learning experience in or out of a school environment.  It is particularly appropriate when a child is about to change learning environment, for example switching schools, making the transition between primary or secondary school or starting home tuition.  It is particularly appropriate for separated parents, foster parents or those new to supporting children’s learning in a parenting role.

 

How long is it?

 

Helping children learn runs as a series of 2 hour sessions, spread over 6 weeks.

 

What does it cover?

 

Helping children learn supports parents to:

 

• ·        Explore personal experiences and attitudes to learning.
• ·        Consider ways they can help support children’s learning outside school.
• ·        Identify academic and social pressures facing children and explore strategies for supporting them through these stresses.
• ·        Consider how to allow children safe and effective access to computers.
• ·        Devise strategies for supporting children through change.

 

What is the benefit of “Helping children learn”?

 

Helping children learn increases parents confidence to encourage their child through learning experiences, both in and out of school.  Parents will be better equipped to support their children through exams, homework or moving schools and to identify the key areas in which they can encourage their child’s personal and academic development.  They will feel more comfortable dealing with teachers and better able to take an active role in their child’s learning.  

 

..I was awful at school, hopeless at maths, couldn’t spell, so I didn’t see how I was supposed to help with his homework. The course helped me face up to my own issues and encourage him, take him places and ask questions to keep him interested.  I even feel better speaking to his teacher.                      Charlene, son aged 6

 

 

 

About the course - New baby, New parent

 

Who is it for?

 

New baby, New parent is for anyone parenting or caring for a baby for the first time.  The course provides a space to explore emotions and experiences around becoming a parent,  both positive and negative and to look at ways to enhance and adapt relationships.  It is also particularly appropriate for foster carers, adopters and family members or friends wishing to offer support to new parents.

 

How long does it last?

 

The course runs as a series of 2 hour sessions, spread over 3 weeks.

 

What does it cover?

 

New baby, New parent encourages parents to explore ways in which to enhance child development and enjoy their relationship with their new baby.  Parents have the opportunity to:

 

• ·        Explore and express their own feelings, needs and concerns.
• ·        Understand what babies need for their healthy growth and development.
• ·        Consider how to communicate with their baby.
• ·        Ensure they meet their own needs while caring for their babies.

 

What is the benefit of “New baby, New parent”?

 

This course gives new parents support and practical strategies on how to cope with the conflicting demands placed upon them.  Wider family relationships benefit as parents increase their self-esteem and confidence and enjoy their parenting role.

 

.. I was so scared.  I was starting to hate being a Mum, hate him and I couldn’t wait to get away.  I started thinking I could never get anything right for him, that I needed counselling or something but the GP suggested this instead.  I realised I didn’t need to feel guilty, I stopped beating myself up for not being  perfect and saw all the stuff I was getting right.  Now I know I’m a good Mum and that he’s a normal baby.  It’s been like falling in love again… 

Alex, son aged 1

 

 

 

 

About the course - New baby in the family

 

 

Who is it for?

 

New baby in the family is for parents, foster carers, adopters and any carer introducing a new baby to an existing family group.  It is particularly useful for existing families with an only child, or where a new family is being created alongside children from previous relationships.  This course encourages all members of the family to adapt and enjoy the changes which a new baby can bring to existing family life.

 

 

How long does it last?

 

The course runs as a series of 2 hour sessions, spread over 4 weeks

 

What does it cover?

 

New baby in the family examines the impact a new baby in the family can have on both existing children and adults.  Parents and carers are encouraged to:

 

• ·    Explore their own past experiences, feelings and needs.
• ·    Consider new babies impact upon siblings and other family members.
• ·    Practice listening and verbal communication skills with siblings and other family members in relation to the new baby.

 

What is the benefit of “New baby in the family”?

 

New baby in the family gives parents the skills and understanding to help the whole family adjust to the changes that come with a new baby. 

 

.. I’d thought my son was being selfish, pushing out the baby and being over demanding when I was feeding her.  Then I was asked to imagine a ‘new wife’ joining my marriage - how I would feel seeing my husband cuddling another woman, how I would react to having to share my partner with a stranger.  It really made me stop and think about what Sam must be feeling and how being expected to suddenly share his parents, his home, even his precious Grandpa with the baby must grate.  The course makes you take stock and think about how you could do things differently…

Clarissa, son aged 7, baby 10 months old

 

 

 

About the course - Ages and stages

Who is it for?

 

Ages and stages is for anyone wishing to gain a fuller understanding of the differing stages of children’s development.  It is especially appropriate for separated or step-parents, childminders, foster carers or those wishing to appreciate and respond to children’s differing developmental needs.  Parents extensively separated by prison, hospital or work commitments report significant benefits from this course.

 

How long does it last?

 

The course runs as a series of 2 hour sessions, spread over 4 weeks.

 

What does it cover?

 

Ages and stages offers the opportunity to recognise and respond to the changing needs of their children as they grow.  On the course parents:

 

• ·    Consider the different stages of children’s development.
• ·    Understand children’s differing behavioural responses to these changes.
• ·    Explore how they can support children to deal positively with these changes.
• ·    Improve how they communicate with their children.

 

What is the benefit of “Ages and stages”?

 

Ages and stages increases parents understanding of the intellectual, physical and social developmental changes experienced by children as they grow up.  Parents gain increased confidence in how to respond to these changes and support children’s move towards increased independence.

 

..they talk bout pals you dinnae ken and things you’ve nae say in.. they grow up sae fast and ye miss out on stuff.. it hurts.  They put on this group in the jail tae let us talk.. it seemed a bit soft but a few ae us wen along and it was good.  the lass really knew her stuff, I got tons ae tips on how tae deal wi the kids an aw..

Kenny, a daughter aged 9 and a son aged 12

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

About the course – Supporting children through change and loss

 

Who is it for?

 

Supporting children through change and loss is for parents and carers of children who are, have been, or are likely to be in need of support through difficult transitions.  Experiences such as separation, bereavement, illness or moving home can be painful and confusing and as such this course is of particular relevance for foster carers, adopters and step parents aiming to sensitively and empathetically support children through challenging circumstances.

 

How long is it?

 

Supporting children through change and loss runs as a series of 2 hour sessions, spread over 3 weeks.

 

What does it cover?

 

Supporting children through change and loss enables parents to:

 

• ·        Explore and understand their own feelings and responses to change and loss.
• ·        Support children in identifying and responding to their emotions.
• ·        Understand grieving and facilitate the process of adjustment.
• ·        Develop skills to support children in building resilience and moving forward.

 

What is the benefit of “Supporting children through change and loss”?

 

Supporting children through change and loss increases parent’s confidence and ability to help children deal with challenging circumstances.  Parents explore the knowledge and skills they need to support children through change and growth, helping them build resilience and understanding. 

 

“.   I did the course after my daughter died because it seemed like the best way to help the other kids cope.  Now I can see that things I took for granted they would understand weren’t that clear.. we were all bottling things up and skirting round things that needed to be said -  that it wasn’t anyone’s fault, that we are still allowed be a family, still have fun even though we will always miss her.  It’s helped us all move on.”

Agnes, daughters aged 1 and 6, son aged 12

 

 

About the course - Bringing up children after splitting up

 

Who is it for?

 

Bringing up children after splitting up is for parents or carers who have separated or divorced, but wish to work together to support their children.  It is also appropriate for step-parents, foster carers and other adults who are involved in caring for children who’s parents no longer live together.  The course need not be attended by both parents, as it is equally useful for individuals as well as separated couples.

 

How long does it last?

 

The course runs as a series of 2 hour sessions, spread over 3 weeks.

 

What does it cover?

 

Bringing up children after splitting up includes discussions around the feelings and practical issues to be faced by separated parents and those caring for children affected by their parents splitting up.  The course encourages parents to:

 

• ·    Review how the separation has affected them personally.
• ·    Explore how to keep positive links between children and separated parents.
• ·    Recognise the special challenges and benefits around co-parenting.
• ·    Consider how to help children cope with being part of a separated family.
• ·    Practice communicating and negotiating with children and ex-partners.

 

What is the benefit of “Bringing up children after splitting up”?

 

Bringing up children after splitting up offers parents and carers fresh skills and insights into supporting children to cope when their family splits up.  Parents gain increased confidence in communicating and negotiating with children and ex-partners over practical issues such as access and other arrangements.  The course encourages parents and children to maintain healthy relationships with all family members.

 

.. there were always wee digs and remarks and we felt we were in the middle… one night she sat us down and we actually talked about what it was like, we all cried but it made it easier for us to say how hurt we felt….

Adam 14, sisters 8 and 10

 

 

 

About the course - Talking about drugs

 

Who it for?

 

Talking about drugs is for parents and carers who want to talk to their children about drugs but don’t know where to begin.  This is not a drug prevention course which will ‘drug proof’ kids, however it does give parents and carers the confidence and information they need to open lines of communication with their children around drug issues.  This course is not intended for parents who need support to cope with their children’s existing drug problems.

 

How long does it last?

 

The course runs as 2 hour sessions spread over 2 weeks.

 

What does it cover?

 

Talking about drugs is a harm reduction course which encourages parents to:

 

• ·    Reflect on their own attitudes to drugs.
• ·    Understand the range of drugs available to young people.
• ·    Explore the reasons why young people experiment with drugs.
• ·    Practice how to talk to children and young people about drugs.

 

What is the benefit of “Talking about drugs”?

 

Talking about drugs gives parents the knowledge and skills to initiate discussions about drug issues with children.  The whole family is better informed about the issues and more able to openly discuss them together.

 

.. Sure I knew there would be issues to deal with but I just never realised how many!  I was embarrassed at first talking about things but when I got into it, I found out lots of the issues were really mine, not hers.  With so much information all around it’s just about confidence and approach..  we can have a laugh about lots of the things I thought I’d never be able to broach with her..

Sam, step-daughter 15, sons aged 24 and 26