Parenting Children Course Intro Guide

An introduction to ...

the parenting children course for those parenting 0 to 10-year-olds

An opportunity e to invest in th future of your children

Why do • Children do not arrive with an instruction manual • No role we undertake in life is more important than parenting • Family life is under great pressure today • Parents face bewildering choices about how to parent effectively • Discovering we are not alone in the challenges we face and picking up ideas from other parents can make a huge difference • Meeting our children’s deepest needs, setting healthy boundaries, developing a family identity and passing on important values takes skill and dedication. We can all learn how to make even the happiest family better

invest in your family?

right for me Are you a parent or caregiver of one or more children aged 0 to 10 years old?

Are you expecting your first child?

Would you like your family life to be the best it can be?

If you answered “yes� to any of those questions, then this course is for you, whether you feel all is going well or you are facing challenges.

While The Parenting Children Course is based on Christian principles, it is designed for parents and caregivers with or without a Christian faith.

The course is for every type of parenting situation, including parenting on your own, step-parenting and parenting as a couple.

Whatever your situation, the practical tools you learn can help you to improve and strengthen your family life.

What is The Parenting Children Course was developed by Nicky and Sila Lee, authors of The Marriage Book and The Parenting Book.

They have been married for over thirty years, have four children and live in London. They started The Parenting Children Course in 1990, and it continues to spread with many courses now running throughout the world.

Over five weekly sessions (or ten shorter ones) you will discover practical tools to help you: • Build a strong family centred on love • Meet your children’s needs • Set effective boundaries • Teach healthy relationships • Pass on the values you hold to be important

expect A fantastic atmosphere that is welcoming, encouraging and fun. Courses are run in all kinds of venues – homes, restaurants, cafes (after hours), community halls, churches, nurseries, schools – but wherever your local course is run, you should find a great atmosphere and a friendly welcome.

A delicious meal or snack – each session begins with something to eat and drink, giving you space to relax and chat to other parents.

Practical talks that are informative and fun, either played on DVD or given live. They include filmed clips of parents and children sharing their own experiences, street interviews and advice from parenting experts.

Small groups based on the age of your oldest child so that you can meet other parents/caregivers who have lots in common with you.

Time to discuss the challenges you are facing and how to establish long-term strategies for your own family.

However, you will not be required to share anything about your family life that you would prefer not to. Every part of the course is optional, including contributing to the small group discussions.

cost Most courses charge a minimal fee to cover the cost of the meal, course materials and venue (if applicable). Your local course administrator will be able to let you know how much you’ll need to pay. Many courses also offer scholarships.

say

others

Don’t just take our word for it – this is what past guests have said about the course

loved

“The course was very informative and helped to build my confidence as a parent.”

“It has given me ways to communicate effectively with my kids.”

“It’s helped tremendously in many ways, like seeing some of my children's behavior as just child-like and not losing my cool over it.”

“We don’t have children yet but it has prepared us very well for when the baby comes.”

Endorsements for The Parenting Book: “A sensitive, practical book that provides real insight into how to be a good parent – a role we all try to fulfill as best we can.”

Bear Grylls “The Parenting Book is practical and full of wise advice. I believe it will help give parents a vital ingredient in the task of bringing up children – confidence!

It’s just what parents need today.”

Rob Parsons “I would recommend it to any parent wanting to do the best they can for their child.”

Natasha Kaplinsky

invest in your family To find a course, visit our website alphausa.org/relationshipcentral (in Canada relationshipcentral.ca) If you have any questions you can contact us at 800.362.5742 or info@alphausa.org In Canada 800.743.0899 or office@alphacanada.org

ISBN 978-1-933114-75-0 ISBN: 978-1933114750 100919

Š Alpha International 2011

Relationship Central

A ministry of Alpha International

9 781933 114750