Frequently Asked Questions
Do you provide childcare?
Yes we do. We can provide up to 3 crèche workers at all the venues we work in. We have found, that over the years, this has usually been sufficient. On the rare occasions when it hasn’t been enough, we have asked parents/carers to see whether they can make alternative arrangements. Usually, a good solution is found.
How long is the course?
Our programmes run for approximately 15 sessions. We say approximately because some may be slightly less whilst others might be more. Generally speaking, the bigger the group, the more weeks are needed. No group will be less than 12 weeks.
Do we get a certificate at the end?
A certificate is provided for everyone who completes the course. We celebrate success all through our programme. We make this an important part of the learning process.
At the moment we are examining ways in which we can obtain accreditation of these learning outcomes which can be used to further the personal and professional development of our participants.
Can my friend come with me?
For some parents, attending a course like ours can be quite challenging. Often, many of our parents haven’t attended any formal learning situations since they were at school. We recognise and understand this and, therefore, if you would like a friend to come with you – this is perfectly fine by us.
Similarly, there is no negative stigma attached to attending one of our courses. Just because you are attending a parenting class does not mean that you are a bad parent. The skills we endeavour to promote are universal in there application. We think that every parent ought to have these skills! Also what we have noticed in recent years is that more and more parents are attending because a friend has already been on it ! So I think that indicates we are providing a happy and friendly learning environment.
Where are your courses running?
We run courses all over the city. We run two sets of groups per year. September to February and February to July. The venues of these courses will be put on our website a few weeks before they commence.
Do you run evening courses?
Nearly all our groups run in the morning or afternoon. We can run groups in the evenings providing there are sufficient numbers to make it viable.
I have a hospital appointment in a two weeks time and will therefore miss a session. Is it still ok for me to come to the course?
We recognise that being a parent is a really challenging experience and will put great demands on your time. We encourage participants to attend every session because of the developmental nature of the programme. Obviously, hospital appointments need to be prioritised and cannot easily be changed.
I don’t think I am a bad parent. Do you still think I should come to the course?
Wherever you see yourself on a continuum of good to bad parent – there will always be potential for new learning. The successes you presently have will also be useful to other parents who may not be achieving as much as you. So, even though we have a well planned developmental programme; what we find equally as useful is the learning from each other – and we actively encourage this. We would love to see you at the course!
Can my partner come as well?
We would love to see more and more couples on our courses. It makes it much more effective to apply the principles if both partners are "on board."
I would estimate that 90% of our groups are female. Male attendees are rising slowly – which is great to see. There is a lot of research out there indicating, the importance of positive male role-models. So, even if you have to drag them along initially "kicking and screaming" it will be really beneficial in the long term.
Will this course give me support in getting my child into better routines – e.g. Bedtimes?
All young children need routines. Routines give children order and sensibility to their lives. Effective parents will develop ways of establishing many routines – not just bedtimes.
We will spend a significant amount of time exploring this area to clearly underline the importance of routines. We have some really exciting ways (from the child’s point of view) to make this happen.