DOWN District Council Chairman, Councillor Maria McCarthy met with Parenting NI representatives Emma Lyttle and Roisin McIlduff to raise awareness of Odyssey, a free eight week parenting programme, which begins in Downpatrick on Wednesday 4 September.
Speaking at the meeting, Roisin (Programme Coordinator) spoke to Councillor McCarthy about what the programme aimed to do and said: “The ‘Odyssey’ Parenting Your Teen Programme was developed by Parenting NI to give parents support and guidance through the difficult teenage years. Parenting NI commissioned the Institute of Child Care Research (Queen’s University) to carry out a three year research study on the ‘Odyssey’ Parenting Your Teen Programme. The research showed that parents and their teenager’s relationships and communication had improved as a result of attending the programme.”
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Parenting NI representatives Emma Lyttle and Roisin McIlduff pictured with Councillor Maria McCarthy, Down District Council Chairperson, at a meeting at the Down Civic Forum.[/caption]
“It is ideal for parents/carers of young people aged 12-18 years old and sessions cover issues such as parenting styles, self- esteem and rules and consequences. The programme has been highly praised by UNESCO chairman Professor Pat Dolan; he believes ‘Odyssey’ Parenting Your Teen is one of the most innovative, parent-friendly and effective support programmes currently available.”
Speaking for Down District Council, Councillor McCarthy said: “I am pleased that Parenting NI has chosen to offer this free programme in our district and I would encourage parents/grandparents/guardians of teenagers to attend after hearing firsthand the benefits and outcomes of the course. Odyssey is delivered by experienced Parenting NI trainers and has been developed in response to the needs of parents. All work is closely monitored, supervised and evaluated to ensure high standards are achieved. Places fill up fast so be sure to register.”
In addition, Parenting NI also offers a Parents Helpline service for anyone experiencing a family difficulty.
The Odyssey programme runs from Wednesday 4 September until Wednesday 23 October in the Ballymote Community Centre, 40 Killough Road, Downpatrick from 7pm – 9pm.
To register for the event call the Parents Helpline on 0808 8010 722 or visit www.parentingni.org
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