Target areas
Parents and carers will be much more likely to access available support and education if they have developed collaborative relationships with the school. The nature of these relationships is impacted on by the parents and carers themselves and their attitudes to and experiences of school – both currently and during their own education. Forming collaborative relationships with parents and carers can be challenging. The needs of staff, particularly their skills and confidence in relating to parents on these issues may need to be considered. It is important that individual staff do not feel that it is their own responsibility to provide parenting information or education to parents and carers – the approach taken needs to be coordinated and supported throughout the school.
Provision of parenting information and education
Parenting information and education covers a broad spectrum from incidental or general information through to formal parenting programs. Some schools provide specific information and programs on parenting such as tips in the school newsletter, access to parenting books and videos, and web-based information. Parenting information on child development and on risk and protective factors for mental health can also be provided as part of transition programs or parent information sessions.
Community connections
Community groups and agencies that specialise in parenting education can also be invited to provide information sessions and specific programs at the school.
School staff can increase levels of support available to parents by linking them with relevant services and organisations in the community. Schools can also provide opportunities for parents to develop relationships and support each other – reducing social isolation is a protective factor for children’s mental health.
Three target areas have been identified for Component 3: Parenting support and education, each with specific objectives. These are:
| Target areas | KidsMatter objectives |
|---|---|
|
|
|
|
|
|
