Celebrating Mellow Parenting
27/09/2012
Families who have taken part in the Mellow Parenting programme have shared their experiences.
A total of 24 families in the Southern Trust have taken part in the programme since it began last year.
Mellow Parenting is aimed at parents of children under four. The fourteen week programme helps to build more positive parent -child relationships, improve the wellbeing of mothers and child behaviour and development.
Gerard Rocks, Assistant Director of Promoting Wellbeing for the Southern Trust says: “Early intervention is a key theme in Transforming Your Care, the review of Health and Social Care in Northern Ireland. Mellow Parenting is a great example of how addressing relationship issues at a very early stage, can prevent them escalating into more serious problems for families and children in the longer term.”
The programme also gives parents the chance to get support from other parents and learn that they are not the only ones with questions or problems.
Some parents who have participated said: “I enjoy both my children much better now that I can manage their behaviour.” “I’ve learnt that if I stay calm everyone around me is happier and calmer.” “I’ve learnt to spot trouble before it starts.” “I’m more confident in myself and my parenting skills.”
This year the Trust is also offering the Mellow Babies programme which is aimed at mothers of babies up to one year old.
If you feel you would benefit from extra parenting support, please speak to your Health Visitor / Parent support worker who can refer you to the Mellow Parenting Programme.
