PTC Intro Guide

An introduction to ...

the parenting teenagers course for those parenting 11 to 18-year-olds

An opportunity e to invest in th future of your teenagers

Why do • Parenting teenagers is harder than ever for most parents today • No role we undertake in life is more important than parenting • We are the main influence on our teenagers’ future • Discovering we are not alone in the challenges we face and picking up ideas from other parents can make a huge difference • Meeting our teenagers’ deepest needs, setting healthy boundaries, helping to develop their emotional health and teaching them how to make good choices takes skill and dedication • Taking time to reflect on our end goal can help us to build our relationship with our teenagers now

invest in your family?

right for me Are you a parent or caregiver of one or more teenagers aged 11 to 18 years old?

Would you like to meet other parents at a similar stage?

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

Are you struggling as a parent of a teenager?

Would you like to improve your skills as a parent of this age group?

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 Teenagers 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 to improve and strengthen your family life.

What is The Parenting Teenagers 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 Teenagers Course in 1997, and it continues to spread with many courses now running throughout the world.

Over five sessions (or ten shorter ones) you will discover practical tools to help you: • Keep your long-term aim in mind • Meet your teenagers’ needs • Set effective boundaries • Help develop your teenagers’ emotional health • Pass on values and help them make good choices

expect A great atmosphere that is welcoming, encouraging and fun. Courses are run in all kinds of venues – homes, restaurants, cafes (after hours), community halls, churches, 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/caregivers.

Practical talks that are informative and fun, either given live or played on DVD. They include filmed clips of parents and teenagers 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 are at a similar stage to 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

“Hearing other parents is reassuring, and finding the tools to use is brilliant.”

don’t skirt around the issues

“The course gave really helpful ways of dealing with seemingly impossible situations.”

“We’ve been given the tools to communicate better with our teenagers” “The course has broadened our minds . . . big time!”

“It was very, very useful.”

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 978-1-933114-79-8 ISBN: 978-1933114798 100920

© Alpha International 2011

Relationship Central

A ministry of Alpha International

9 781933 114798