A total of 52 persons will go back to the classroom next Monday, July 25, for 17 weeks of instruction as part of the Division of Family’s Fifth Positive Parenting Skills Training of Trainers course.
Senior Administrative Officer in the Division, Marva Howell, disclosed that approximately 88 persons had already been trained as parent facilitators since the programme’s introduction in May 2009. She added that another training session would start in January 2012, and registration should begin at the end of this year.
"So, when those new persons undergo the training which starts next Monday, they will join the other graduates of the programme and help more parents across the island improve their parenting skills," Ms. Howell stated.
Classes will be held on Mondays and Wednesdays, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. The five modules to be taught are: Parenting, Coping and Managing, Finding Self, Seeking Help and Action Planning.
The aim of this programme is to develop a cadre of well trained and competent individuals who will deliver training to parents and prospective parents, so as to ensure they are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to have strong familial relationships, especially with their children.
Mr. Howell noted that an increasing number of persons were expressing interest in the training of trainers’ course. "In addition, some organisations have been asking for facilitators to train groups of parents. They want us to address specific issues dealing with the family, namely, dealing with adolescents and communicating effectively. Persons have also asked for assistance in the area of managing finances," she pointed out.
The Senior Administrative Officer said youth, sports, community and church groups interested in organising training for their members should immediately contact the Ministry of Family and Youth at 430-2917.