Parenting is difficult. There is no handbook and it can feel overwhelming and confusing when stresses pile up. For parents who want to strengthen their parenting skills and learn from other parents, registration is now open for free positive parenting programs beginning in January. My Dad’s Group is a long-running program for men offered in Owen Sound and Walkerton. In response to community demand, My Mom’s Group is launching for the first time with a pilot project in Owen Sound as well.

According to Murray Hill, one of the My Dad’s Group co-facilitators the main goal of the program is to improve relationships and understanding between parents, co-parents, and children. “We want everyone in the life of a child to encourage them to be the best that they can be. Strengthening our communication and parenting skills helps to make our homes safer and more peaceful for everyone,” Hill said.

My Dad’s Group runs for ten weeks in Owen Sound and Walkerton with the possibility of three additional sessions during which participating dads can bring their partners and co-parents to learn collaboratively. The groups run once a week from 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm and always begin with dinner. The group discussions are open so that all the participating dads can develop strengths, have input, and problem solve together. There is no age limit for registration and some groups have even included grandfathers who are deeply involved in their grandchildren’s lives as well. My Mom’s Group will run in the same way but will only be available in Owen Sound.

Kids change quickly and it can be hard to know what to expect as they grow. Facilitators from the Men’s Program and Bruce Grey Child and Family Services spend time during the program talking and teaching about the ages and stages of childhood development so that parents know what to expect and what their kids need as they grow. Although the group might discuss specific skills and make referrals if asked, these are not groups for people who want to learn about diaper changing and bottle-feeding. These are groups for people who want to develop the personal skills that make positive parenting possible and easier.

My Dad’s Group begins in Owen Sound on January 7th and in Walkerton on January 15th. My Mom’s Group will begin in Owen Sound on January 9th. To register for My Dad’s Group or My Mom’s Group, call the Men’s Program at 519-372-2720. You can also register by emailing [email protected] or [email protected]. Registration is open until the first day of each group.

Source: Men's Program Media Release