I don't need no education

As a new mum, Naomi Buckler found a resource that brought her parenting to a whole new level.

As a mother of a little 18 month old, I first heard of Parentalk from Care for the Family, which had everything you needed to run a parenting group. So getting together with other mums from the toddler group to watch some parenting experts on video seemed like a good idea, and a chance for a bit of a chat too!

It was so easy to run the group (apart from all the noisy children!) as everyone quickly became keen to join in the discussions and talk about the scenarios on the video. And although it was all common sense really, it certainly helped to have spent time thinking about how issues such as 'setting boundaries' and 'only say what you mean'. I've been careful ever since to threaten only what I'm prepared to carry out! Recently our next door neighbours missed their night out as they carried out their warning to cancel their little boy's sleepover, and I had to admire their resolve - and he's been better behaved ever since

Although it‘s over four years since we ran Parentalk, the lessons have stuck with me. The other day my five year old turned the outlet pipe from the washing machine upside down - so instead of going down the drain, all the water flooded the garage.
I was just about to fly off the handle, when I remembered 'Don't be cross just because something has annoyed you'. So as it was a case of childish curiosity gone wrong, I took a deep breath and explained (as kindly as I could under the circumstances!) why no-one should touch pipes and drains!

You know, I started those eight weeks thinking I knew it all - after all - I'd been parented myself for years, so I'd seen how it was done! But actually they were some of most valuable hours I've ever spent. That's why I often recommend that other parents try it too. It might just be common sense, but it was put in such a way that it was there when I needed it. And as I soon found out - for a parent, every day has a crisis.

Click to read about some of the parenting courses that are available to run in your Parent and Toddler group.

Last Updated 03 December 2010