Parenting is a big job with many challenges.  It's good to have support along the way. 
At Wolseley Family Place we offer

• One on one  parenting assistance
     Individual consultations on a topic of concern to the parent
• Group parenting education classes such as:
      Triple P
      How to Talk so Kids will Listen
      Nobody's Perfect
      and others

To register for classes or for more information contact us at 788-8055.

2011/2012 Parenting class schedule

September 14 - October 12                          Triple P                                                Wednesday 1:30 - 3:00

November 9 - December 7                           Parents Exploring Anger                         Wednesday 1:30 - 3:00

February 15 - March 29                               Nobocy's Perfect                                  Wednesday 1:30 - 3:00

May 11 - June 8                                          How to Talk so Kids will Listen                Thursday 7:00 - 8:30  

 

 "Mom, are you listening?" 

        This is a question we all hear at some time or another.  There are days when we feel like we have been 'listening' all day.  We listened to the bus driver, the teacher, co-workers, the boss, even friends.  By the time we get home with our children we would like a break from 'listening'.  It feels like we don't have any energy left to listen to them.  But take heart.  Often 10 minutes of active, attentive listening will earn us a few minutes of peace and quiet.  By focusing on them and giving them your full attention they will feel heard and be able to move on to their own activities.   

Active listening involves; 

        1.  Making eye contact.  Give them your full attention.  Trying to do this while watching tv. or unpacking groceries will minimize the impact of your listening. 

        2.  Acknowledge their feelings briefly.  You may need to help them identify their feelings - give their feeling a name.  "It sounds like you were pretty frustrated."

       3.  Accept what they are saying without trying to fix their problem right away or reacting to it with strong emotion.  Remain calm and hear what they are really saying.

     These small steps can give your child the reassurance that they are important to you.  They feel that they will be okay and you are around to catch them if they need it.  This reassurance often frees them up to explore and become involved in independant play.

        

                Ahh, the sound of busy, happy children.  Enjoy the quiet.  

     

Here are some interesting web sites. 

www.reachinginreachingout.com/parents

www.manitobaparentzone.ca

www.pantley.com/elizabeth