Child and Parent Centre – Collie Valley have welcomed a parental support program to encourage parents to give their children the best start in life.
Investing In Our Youth are co-ordinating the Incredible Years Basic Parenting Program (IY), with the logic behind the program being based upon identifying a gap in easily assessable parent support programs that specifically help parents to provide nurturing, loving and affectionate environments at home.
CEO of Investing In Our Youth Carmen Gregg said they are thrilled the community has embraced the parenting support program.
The Incredible Years program is an extensively researched program designed for families with children 3 years to 8 years and is the first of its kind to be delivered in Western Australia.
Carole English the Coordinator of the Child and Parent Centre – Collie Valley said families from all walks of life are welcome and encouraged to participate.
“The most important job in the world is parenting but it’s often the hardest too. Unemployment, work-life balance, family breakdown and the pressures of modern day life can make parenting really difficult,” she said.
In February two IY programs started concurrently in Collie and Bunbury. IY facilitator in Collie Bonnie Andrews said the program focuses on empowering parents.
“The Incredible Years program is an eye opener for all parents, whether they are feeling confident as parents or are just wanting to be the very best they can be, at a job that has no manual,” she said.
Collie IY program Co- facilitator Danielle Flatt said the program takes a ‘whole child’ approach.
“Not only do we look at behaviour and positive strategies, the program promotes school readiness and also encourages warm, loving and respectful relationships,” she said.
Investing In Our Youth is working in partnership with Maidens Park Primary School in Bunbury.
The IY group in Collie is run in collaboration with the Collie Family Centre and manager Sharon Thompson said the partnership has been a positive one.
Investing In Our Youth also thanked South32 Worsley Alumina for supporting this program and enabling this to be kick started in Collie and Bunbury with a planned approach to making the program sustainable into the future.
Vice President Operations, Worsley Alumina, Dino Otranto said South32 is proud to support a program that focuses on giving children the best start to their schooling life.
If you are interested in participating or wish to learn more contact Child and Parent Centre – Collie Valley on 9734 3364.