ABOUT THE GROUP

Introducing a new kind of support group that focuses on the challenges of motherhood. This is our time to discuss any issues or concerns we have about parenting children of all ages. Each session will focus on a specific aspect of parenting and the groups are structure in a way that lets everyone share. The community is welcome to attend these groups. Childcare is available during the session.

SOME TOPICS OF DISCUSSION

• Styles of Parenting
• Discipline vs. Punishment
• Encouragement vs. Praise
• Communication

These are just some of the topics that will be discussed. Others may arise and that is just fine! As long as we cover what everyone needs and everyone is able to provide input, then it will be a successful group.

THE FORMAT

The first ten minutes of group will be consist of a mini lesson on a topic. There will be handouts or books available to backup the lesson. These lessons will be fun and informative and never boring or useless.

The next thirty minutes will be sharing of the topic. Everyone in the group will have an equal time to share. The last five minutes will be open to sharing about any issue, on topic or off. The instructor will be available to answer any and all questions to the best of her ability. There will also be a suggestion box and paper and for suggestions to better the group. This group is for the benefit of all moms in the community, so Parenting Coordinator Shauna will be as helpful as possible!

CONFIDENTIALITY

Everything in the group is confidential as in all support groups. Who you see and what you hear must stay within the group. There are some necessary exceptions to this rule, such as if the parenting coordinator hears about or suspects child abuse, if she hears about or suspects elder abuse, if someone threatens to harm herself and is serious about it, or if someone threatens to harm someone else and is serious about it, it will be reported.