1. What do you mean by Connected Parenting?
Connected parenting, is all about communication. We believe that parents who connect by talking, spending time together and developing common interests as well as really listening to their children will create a positive environment for their family to thrive. We recognise that in today’s pressured society this is hard to achieve, but to be truly connected, parents need to find ways to interact with their children, partners, wider family and community.

2. Are courses only for ‘bad’ parents, or parents facing difficulties?
No, our courses are open to all parents who are interested in exploring how to be more effective and confident parents. There are very few parents who can claim never to have found their children’s behaviour challenging and who can claim to handle every situation really well. The course offers opportunity to learn new skills and techniques that prepare for future parenting challenges as well as dealing with current issues.

3. Do both of us have to attend?
Not necessarily. On most of our courses only one parent attends. By attending the course yourself, you may be able to share your learning through direct discussion or through modelling and demonstrating new skills when tackling family situations. Our courses are supported by a parents’ handbook and additional literature that can be shared with partners.

4. Do my children come too?
Our courses are for parents. We do not work directly with children. Some courses make provision of a crèche for pre-school children.

5. Can I only come to the sessions that are relevant to me?
We hope that every session will be relevant to you. In order for the group to be a safe and confidential environment we prefer group membership to be as consistent as possible throughout the course.

6. Do I have to talk about my family difficulties?
You do not have to discuss any issues you do not want to share. However, in our experience, our facilitators work hard to build sufficient trust in the group so parents feel safe enough to talk about their concerns.

7. Do you report what is discussed to anyone else?
No we do not report details of issues shared on the courses with other agencies; the exception is when a person is in danger of harm. We are governed by the law on Safeguarding Children and follow the local guidelines and procedures.

8. Does the course involve lots of reading and writing?
No, but there are books and handouts available for those who like to read. There are some forms to complete but our facilitators are available to give support discretely upon request. Please let us know when you are booking if you need any assistance.

9. Is there an examination at the end? Is there a pass or fail?
Parenting is not an exact science and there is no right or wrong. Therefore there is no pass or fail! And no exams!