I don't need no education
New mum, Naomi Buckler, found a resource that brought her parenting to a whole new level.
As a mother of one little 18 month year old, I first heard of 'Parentalk' from Care for the Family which had everything you needed to run a parenting group. So getting together with other Mums from the toddler group to watch some parenting experts on video seemed like a good idea, and a chance for a bit of a chat too!
It was so easy to run the group (apart from all the noisy children!) as everyone quickly became keen to join in the discussions and talk about the scenarios on the video. And although it was all common sense really, it certainly helped to have spent time thinking about how issues such as 'setting boundaries' and 'only say what you mean'. I've been careful ever since to only threaten what I'm prepared to carry out! Recently our next door neighbours missed their night out as they carried out their warning to cancel their little boy's sleepover, and I had to admire their resolve - and he's been better behaved ever since.
Although it was over four years since we ran 'Parentalk', the lessons have stuck with me. The other day my five year old turned the outlet pipe from the washing machine upside down- so instead of going down the drain, all the water flooded the garage. I was just about to fly off the handle, when I remembered 'Don't be cross just because something has annoyed you'. So as it was a case of childish curiosity gone wrong, I took a deep breath and explained (as kindly as I could under the circumstances!) why no-one should touch pipes and drains!
You know, I started those eight weeks thinking I knew it all - after all - I'd been parented myself for years, so I'd seen how it was done! But actually they were some of most valuable hours I've ever spent. That's why I often recommend that other parents try it too. It might just be common sense, but it was put in such a way that it was there when I needed it. And as I soon found out - for a parent, every day has a crisis!
Resources
Care for the Family’s online shop is bursting with really useful resources to help you navigate the jungle of parenthood. Here are just a few we thought might be helpful…
21st Century Parent DVD and workbook
Following on from 'Parentalk', this new resource is an eight-session, DVD-based course to help you be an even better parent. An easy-to-use workbook accompanies the DVD. Parents often feel caught between the pressures of today and worries about tomorrow. But you can build strong relationships with your children today that will help steer them towards a fulfilling life.
If you’re interested in running a 21st Century Parent group with your friends or your toddlers group, you can find everything you need to know right here.
Every Step Counts - building a healthy stepfamily
Becoming a step-parent is not easy. Whether we have experience of raising a family or not, forming a new family raises many questions for everyone involved. In this practical and easy to read book, Christine and Tony Tufnell give valuable advice for anyone living, or planning to live, in a stepfamily.
"Every mother should read this book - it's fantastic! It has made me laugh; it has made me cry, but most significantly, it has made me realise I am not alone." Diane Louise Jordan
Written by Naomi Buckler. Posted on 20th May.
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