The Okanagan Boys and Girls Club (BGC Okanagan) is a haven for parents and caregivers navigating the complex and often challenging world of raising teenagers and preteens. To address the unique needs of this demographic, the organization is offering two exceptional programs, Parents Together and Parents in the Know. These programs provide a sense of community, a judgement-free space to connect, learn strategies, and gain support from trained professionals. The ultimate goal of these programs is to empower parents and caregivers to build strong relationships with their children and develop the skills necessary to navigate the teenage years with confidence. The first program, Parents Together, is designed for those raising teens and preteens facing behavioral, emotional, or mental health challenges. This support group offers a space for families to connect, share experiences, and receive guidance from professionals. The main focus points of these sessions will be skill-building, improving communication, and fostering resilience. Parents Together sessions will run from 5:15 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. on Thursdays at the West Side Learning Lab until May 8.
- • Parents Together will focus on providing a safe space for parents and caregivers to share their experiences and connect with others who understand their challenges.
- • Skill-building workshops will be offered to help parents develop the skills they need to navigate challenging behaviors and emotions.
- • Resilience-building activities will be incorporated into the sessions to help parents and caregivers develop the skills necessary to cope with the stresses of parenting a teenager or preteen.
The second program, Parents in the Know, is a 10-week program designed to help strengthen communication, navigate common parenting challenges, and set healthy boundaries. This program will run from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Wednesdays at the Downtown Library until June 4. The program will provide expert guidance and group discussions to help parents and caregivers develop the skills necessary to build strong relationships with their children.
- • Parents in the Know will focus on teaching parents how to set clear boundaries, communicate effectively, and navigate common parenting challenges.
- • Expert guidance will be provided to help parents develop healthy communication strategies and build strong relationships with their children.
- • Group discussions will be an integral part of the program, providing a safe space for parents to share their experiences and learn from others.
McKenzie McFarlane, family programs manager at BGC Okanagan, notes, “These programs create a space where parents feel heard, supported, and empowered. Parenting is tough, especially through the teenage years, and our goal is to help caregivers build strong relationships with their children and develop the skills to navigate this journey with confidence.”
By providing these programs, BGC Okanagan is addressing the unique needs of parents and caregivers in the Okanagan region. The organization’s goal is to empower parents and caregivers to build strong relationships with their children and develop the skills necessary to navigate the challenges of parenting a teenager or preteen. With the support of Parents Together and Parents in the Know, parents can gain the confidence and skills necessary to overcome the obstacles of parenting a teenager or preteen. The programs are free, making them accessible to all parents and caregivers in the region. The West Side Learning Lab and Downtown Library will serve as the primary locations for the programs, providing a safe and welcoming space for parents to connect, learn, and grow. By participating in these programs, parents can build a support network, develop new skills, and gain a sense of confidence in their ability to navigate the challenges of parenting a teenager or preteen. The Importance of Community and Support
The programs offered by BGC Okanagan highlight the importance of community and support in parenting. By providing a judgement-free space for parents to connect, learn, and grow, the organization is recognizing the importance of building relationships and networks with other parents and caregivers. This support can be a powerful tool in helping parents navigate the challenges of parenting a teenager or preteen. Empowerment through Education
The programs offered by BGC Okanagan also demonstrate the importance of education and skill-building in parenting. By providing workshops, guidance, and support, the organization is empowering parents and caregivers to develop the skills they need to build strong relationships with their children. This education can be a powerful tool in helping parents navigate the challenges of parenting a teenager or preteen.
“We believe that every parent deserves to feel heard, supported, and empowered. Our programs are designed to provide a safe space for parents to connect, learn, and grow, and we are committed to helping parents build strong relationships with their children and develop the skills to navigate the teenage years with confidence.”
By providing these programs, BGC Okanagan is addressing the unique needs of parents and caregivers in the Okanagan region.
