“Why should I attend a child development workshop?” This is probably what goes through your mind when you are invited to one. It is natural to question why you should spare the time to attend a parent workshop.
The parenting journey has its good and bad times. Situations change, and these workshops are great because parents share their experiences. Child development experts will also give you a glimpse of what goes on in your child’s mind and how your actions affect him.
Tips on how to handle conflicts
You will not always have a smooth relationship with your child. If you have more than one child, you may be forced to be a mediator from time to time when they are not getting along. A workshop for parents will enlighten you on the causes of conflict and how to resolve them.
Sometimes, asserting your authority may seem the easiest way to manage conflicts, but it is not always the right way. Experts in conflict management will give you guidance on how to deal with issues you may encounter in a way that your children will find fair and acceptable.
Single parenting
Some Singaporeans still frown at single parenting, especially of unwed mothers raising their children. Records from the Ministry of Social and Family Development show that an average of 800 children are born annually do not have a father named on the birth certificate.
Besides the usual single parenting struggles, a single parent may still have to contend with the pressures from society. A parent workshop is a great avenue to hear more about single parenting and how to cope with the stress without it spilling over to your relationship with the child.
A child in a single-parent home may also have his struggles. You will get professional guidance on how to help your child cope.
Single parenting households do not just arise from mothers having children in the absence of the fathers. Some women become single parents after the death of their spouse. Child development workshops are great because the experts give guidance on how to handle the transition and challenges of the new household.
Choosing between being a parent or your child’s friend
Today’s parents have different views on parenting styles. Some people believe it is important for parents to be friends with their children. The belief behind this parenting style is children are more open with their friends than their parents.
What is your parenting style? Does it work? Workshops for parents seek to answer some of your questions about the different parenting styles. You might decide to incorporate different styles in your home.
Ideas on how to listen and respond to children
Good communication between parents and children is important. A parent workshop will provide you with an insight on how you should listen to your child and respond, irrespective of the situation. You don’t want to sound judgmental because this will cause your child to shut you out. The child development experts will give you an idea of how to respond to your child in different situations.
The role of parents in a child’s education
Besides paying for your child’s education, what more should you do to ensure your child’s success in school? How does the home environment influence your child’s learning experience? These are some of the issues that are discussed at the parent workshop.
Most parents assume that their children can compartmentalize their home and school lives as separate entities. However, a child who is not happy at home is likely to see a drop in his school performance.
The training session at the child development workshops can confirm that you are on the right track as a parent. It can also be an eye-opener of the things you are doing wrong and how your actions affect your child.