Mums and Dads wanted for positive parenting programme

Mums and Dads wanted for positive parenting programme

The University of Auckland is running a study for parents who want help managing their child’s behaviour.

Researchers from the Parenting Research Group are looking for parents with children aged five to eight years old to take part in the Auckland-based study. The free parenting programme aims to enable parents or caregivers to develop positive relationships with their children and to manage behaviour in a constructive way.

The programme consists of brief parenting groups on topics, such as dealing with disobedience and positive parenting.

Parents who have already participated in these groups say that the programme gave them good strategies to deal with problem behaviour, that family life was calmer and communication between parents had improved.

Senior Lecturer Louise Keown, of the Parenting Research Group, says many young children occasionally display challenging behaviours, such as not following instructions, talking back or arguing with adults, or aggressive fighting with siblings.

“Family relationships can become strained and children’s self-esteem and behaviour can develop negatively.”

Dr Keown said parents who have been through similar parenting programmes had reported positive results including that their relationship with their child had improved.

“It can also improve their relationship with their partner. The programmes generally makes parents feel more confident in their parenting skills and can have a positive impact on their own well-being.”

To volunteer for the research projects contact the Parenting Research Group on 09 623 8899 ext 83042 or email foed-tprg@auckland.ac.nz for more information.

ENDS

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