What is your role?
My role is to support parents to understand the science of child development and equip them with skills and tools to more effectively meet their children’s needs.
I support parents in two ways: by delivering parenting group programs and providing specialist individual support as required.
I am a qualified Social Worker with about 6 years’ experience working with children, young people and families. I have worked in a variety of roles including caseworker and school counsellor over different parts of Sydney.
What parenting services does NCNS provide for the community?
Our group programs have largely been developed and field tested by experts in the field of child development and mental health. The first purpose of parent groups is to provide specific information and skills training, and the second (but equally important) is to connect parents with each other. Group participants often breathe a big sigh of relief when they learn they’re not the only ones struggling with this whole parenting thing!
My individual work can look like a one-off session or several sessions over time with focus on a single parenting goal. An example goal might be to support a child to return to school after an extended absence.
How often do programs run?
Each term we have at least three programs on offer.
Since the pandemic, there has been increased demand for online delivery for our time-poor parents, so we offer groups either online via Zoom and in person at a NCNS or partner venue.
Every program runs over a series of weekly sessions. Duration and length of programs varies, our longest is 8 weeks and our shortest is 4 weeks. Sessions can run from 90 minutes to 3 hours.
Programs run during school terms and between school drop off and pick-up times to make it easier for parents to attend.
What are the needs of parents in Penrith?
Chronic stress is the most common denominator for all parents that I work with. Family units are far smaller in current times than ever before in human history, with two to one parent households being the norm now. Parents are expected to take on the lion’s share of work caring for their children as well as somehow surviving in a difficult economy with very little affordable housing and a rising cost of living. The pandemic and recent natural disasters have added yet more stress, pushing many families to crisis point.
NCNS helps parents by providing space, time, individualised support and accurate information to help them on their journey. Honestly, I am happy if parents just come to programs to take advantage of the free child minding (although, this might be the initial selling point, they often leave programs having gained more than a break)!
What can parents expect to get out of the program/s?
So, starting with what NOT to expect: Lectures. Even though I have to talk A LOT about neurobiology, attachment and stuffy topics like that, I always aim to make the content accessible to everyone. Learning happens when it’s fun, tangible, practical and relevant to your life right now.
What parents can expect: A warm welcome, a break, plenty of lightbulb moments, a laugh or two, accurate information, a cup of tea and a bite to eat (if in person), and understanding (and not just from NCNS staff, but from fellow parents as well).
Do you have any advice for struggling parents?
You are not alone. Please avoid “Mumstagram” – social media is never an accurate reflection of other people’s lives! Parenting really is the hardest job, and it has its low points. You are doing your best and we are here for you.
Can you recommend any resources for parents?
Of course, #ParentingInPenrith is totally worth a follow for inspiration, information and updates on local activities and programs!
Parent Line NSW is a free telephone counselling and support service for parents and carers with children aged 0 to 18 who live in NSW. It is staffed by trained, professionals counsellors who are available 9am to 9pm Monday to Friday and 4pm to 9pm on weekends. Call 1300 1300 52.
Raising Children Network is a website that provides free, reliable, up-to-date and independent information for parents. Visit raisingchildren.net.au.
What’s programs will you be running during Term 2 2023?
Non-Accredited First Aid for Children & Babies
Learn how to confidently help your child in an emergency. Facilitated by an ICU Nurse. Topics include Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), Anaphylaxis, Asthma & Choking.
Tuning In To Teens
An emotion-focused program for parents of tweens and teens who want to learn about how to stay connected to their young person during the turbulence of adolescence.1
Circle of Security-Parenting (Online)
Relationship-based early intervention program designed to enhance attachment security between parents and children. 7 Weeks Online course! (Open to NSW Residents only)
Parenting After Family Violence
A nurturing, kind program for mothers/ female caregivers who wish to heal relationships with their children and teens after family violence. Address to be sent via SMS to participants one week before the first session.
Parenting Programs Term 2 2023 Flyer
Free talk… tell us anything you’d like to add in the comments below.