Graduates of Wairarapa Teen Parent Unit’s parenting programme, from left to right: Brianna, Clarissa, Jordan, Tahlia, programme facilitator Sam Williams, Jade, and Aku. PHOTO/SUPPLIED
Students celebrated their graduation from Wairarapa Teen Parent Unit’s parenting programme at Makoura College on Monday.
The parents completed a programme called ‘Positive Tools for You and Your Child’, written and facilitated by Proactive Parenting Services co-ordinator Sam Williams, and supported by Youth Service at Wairarapa Safer Community Trust.
Williams said students participated enthusiastically and worked hard to complete each module of the course. The programme covered modules on brain development, conscious parenting, managing childhood behaviour, skills for keeping children safe, stress management, and playful parenting.
“It is always a total pleasure to deliver this programme at the teen unit,” Williams said.
“We are lucky to have such a wonderful resource in our Wairarapa community.”
Williams said having a young father among the mix of students this year had been especially valuable to the group.
“This group of young parents have participated enthusiastically, and it is a privilege to spend some time with them and hear about their babies, their strengths, and their struggles.
“They should all be very proud of themselves and I wish them luck with their positive parenting journeys.”
Graduates had positive things to say about the programme.
“I loved learning about new things – how to cool down if we are stressed, teaching them about gentle hands,” graduate Jordan said.
Another graduate, Brianna, said while the programme was educational, it was also a lot of fun.
