It can be tough understanding a toddler’s thoughts which is why some parents are taking a class.
The You Make a Difference program, offered by Carrier Sekani Family Services (CSFS), teaches parents that they are the best teachers, Trish Olin said, course facilitator.
“The best thing is to learn techniques that make the day to day with your kids better and make every day more meaningful,” Olin said.
The free course has been coupled with CSFS’ Toy Lending Library every Friday at Glad Tidings Tabernacle church. Parents can leave their children in the play room while they learn different ways to connect with their child.
“It reinforces good parenting and let’s you know your not alone. You can see your kids are exactly like everyone else’s kids,” Pat Williamson said, early years coordinator.
Each week parents learn how to better interact with their child through daily activities on topics such as language development, literacy and social skills. Parents can even take advantage of a video-taped play interaction which is shown back to them.
“It focuses on positive reinforcement to show them they do an amazing job,” Olin said. “It’s all positive feedback and it’s really about tuning into your child…making that connection with them.”
At the end of the course parents can keep the video.
“It’s a good place to come to be surrounded by other moms going through the same thing,” Andrea Olferd said, mom participant.
The program started in January and although it’s full, registration for the next round will be after spring break. If interested call CSFS at 250-567-2900 and ask for Pat, Trish or Dawne. You can also email pwilliamson@csfs.org or dawne@csfs.org.
The Toy Lending Library will continue to be open every Friday from 10:30-12:30.