SUPPORTING PARENTS AND STRENGTHENING FAMILIES

Parent education and support offer a lifeline for families.

As we all know, children don't come with instruction manuals. At some point, most parents face challenges related to tantrums, peer pressure, teenage independence and other common experiences associated with child development. Effective parenting leads to children reaching their full potential, but many parents are at a loss for knowing how best to support their child or what to do when problem behaviours escalate or emotional distress becomes worse. When a child or youth has a social, emotional or behavioural problem that impacts their ability to function, families often experience tremendous stress and parents feel confused about what to do.

That's why the Kinark Foundation supports community-based parent education programs that give parents the chance to learn positive approaches to parenting, to develop greater knowledge, skills and confidence, and to prevent and manage common problems. For example, Kinark Child and Family Services partners with community organizations and schools to offer 'Triple P - Positive Parenting Program®', a flexible, multi-level intervention for the prevention and treatment of behavioural and emotional problems in children and youth. 'Triple P' is one of the only evidence-based parenting programs backed by over 25 years of clinically proven, world-wide research. Through the program, parents learn how to respond effectively to their child's needs, identify issues sooner, and avoid reinforcing difficult behaviours. The 'Triple P' program can prevent more serious problems thereby reducing the need for more costly mental health services.

Currently, Kinark is seeking funding to expand 'Triple P' programs in York, Simcoe, Peterborough, Northumberland and Durham. The first step is to train staff in the 'Triple P' model to equip them to deliver the program to hundreds of families each year. Another critical component is partnering with community organizations and using the media and other communication strategies to inform parents that the 'Triple P' program is effective, available and can make a tremendous difference in the healthy development of their children. As a 'universal' program targeted to reach all families - those who need general education on child development and parenting to those requiring more intensive support to cope with challenging behaviours - 'Triple P' can be delivered in a seminar format in schools and other community locations, while a greater degree of support can be provided one-on-one or in a small group format within children's mental health organizations. Tip sheets and workbooks are provided so parents have resources they can refer to at home in order to reinforce their learning.

How can you make a difference?

If you would like to make a gift to support Parent Education programs that build knowledge, skills and confidence leading to better child outcomes, please click here to make a donation.