REAP programme offers guidance for parents of children aged 3-7
When Rose Bertram, of Tararua REAP, attended the Incredible Years parenting programme several years ago, she was so impressed she decided to train to become a facilitator.
Now in a Tararua REAP partnership with The Trust Tararua, she, Sarah Harrowfield and Margaret
Archibald are combining to run the programme in term two this year at Pahiatua.
The programme is for parents of children aged 3-7 and runs for 14 weeks of intensive and comprehensive guidance, involving a session a week for the parents and the rest of the week to trial what they learn at home. The three-hour session runs over lunch, which is provided. The programme is based on a parenting pyramid where parents learn skills and strategies each week that supports a child’s development.
For the first few week’s parents learn how to use empathy, play, problem solving, listening and talking, that encourage an increase in a child’s attachment, self-esteem and co-operation. These are the foundations to managing children’s behaviour.
As the weeks go along the parents explore skills such as praise, persistence coaching, setting clear limits and consequences, and so much more.
Rose says the earlier parents use positive parenting strategies, the more confidence they have to manage their child’s behaviour and the more responsive the child can be.
This is a continuation of the
course that has been offered throughout Tararua, previously in Pahiatua, Woodville and Dannevirke. The course is
supported by the Ministry of Education and is free for parents to attend. Tararua REAP and The Tararua Trust are keen to help people carpool and assist a little in travel costs.
Margaret, Sarah and Rose are all trained teachers and parents themselves and share the dream that all parents in the Tararua should have the opportunity to attend a parenting programme so the next generation of children can experience a home environment that promotes resilience, high self-esteem and confidence in children and parents.
One of the side benefits of the programme is the bonding parents experience meeting each week and sharing stories. Laughter abounds in the sessions as the parents learn that every child is different.
Prior to the course running, REAP will visit the homes of those enrolled to seek background as courses are tailormade. So enrolments are welcomed as soon as possible.