Pyramid for Parents
The Pyramid for Parents group-work programme has been specially developed to enhance parents’ skills and understanding of how to support their child's emotional well-being.
The groups utilise the ethos of Pyramid and although initially developed to run alongside Pyramid clubs, it has been widely found to be beneficial for parents in general.
"Well it’s actually taught me how to be a mum to my kids, ‘cause I never really done that before… it basically taught me how to put my children first, what they need and how to interact with them… before they were just there, and it’s just taught me to get on with them actually, play with them and enjoy them, and I didn’t expect that. It’s really taught me how to be with my kids." Parent, East of England
Pyramid for Parent groups support parents to:
- share experiences and support each other
- enhance their relationship with their child.
- raise their awareness of the role they play in promoting a positive self-image and resilience in their children.
- gain the knowledge, skills and positive experiences to enhance their parent/child relationships
- create a supportive home environment for all.
Please contact us for more information.
What to expect
Each group runs over a minimum of six two-hour sessions, supported by trained facilitators who provide information and use fun activities to promote discussion.
"I thoroughly enjoyed it, I used to look forward to coming." Parent, London
Groups are non-judgmental, supportive and respectful. Each session focuses on a different aspect of supporting a child's emotional well-being.
Parents are encouraged to reflect on and share their experiences as well as exploring new techniques. Most of all, they have fun supporting each other!
Sessions
The framework is divided into six two-hour sessions, but length and number of sessions can be increased according to local need.
- Session One: All About You (explores individuals’ role as parents)
- Session Two: Time Together (encourages parents to spend quality time with their child)
- Session Three: Are You Listening (discusses ways to communicate respectfully and effectively with their child)
- Session Four: Your Family, Community and Culture (looks at the influence family, community and culture have on parents relationship with their child)
- Session Five: Making Changes (explores positive ways to change a child’s behaviour without having a negative impact upon their emotional well-being)
- Session Six: Your Future (encourages parents to reflect upon their learning and celebrate their success)
"... I think you learn better from doing things rather than just sitting and listening." Parent, East of England
Session One
This session allows the parents to get to know each other and develop their group rules. It provides information about the Pyramid Club and the structure of the Pyramid for Parents sessions.
The group is then given the opportunity to reflect upon the role of the parent and their needs as individuals. The parents are encouraged to take some time out to ‘recharge their batteries’ and meet some of their own needs.
Session Two
This session allows parents to explore the key factors that influence a child’s self image and resilience. They are encouraged to recognise the important role they play in supporting their child and their own parenting style. The importance of role modelling and spending quality time with children is discussed and parents are encouraged to spend some planned quality time with their child over the coming week.
Session Three
This looks more closely at the role of communication in the relationship with their child and focuses especially on listening skills and non-verbal communication. The importance of talking with children and the use of praise is discussed. Parents are encouraged to use descriptive commentary when playing with their children, to encourage child-led play and to plan an opportunity to play with their child. They are encouraged to practise the skills of listening and using descriptive commentary.
Session Four
This session focuses on the complexities of modern life and the influence of family, community and culture on the parent/child relationship. Family structures and cultural and economic pressures are explored.
Parents are encouraged to anticipate issues and value the time spent planning for them.
Session Five
During this session the group is reminded of the important part a positive relationship with their child plays in managing that child’s behaviour. Positive and assertive methods of managing behaviour and strategies to achieve this are discussed. The importance of consistency and appropriate consequences are highlighted. Parents are encouraged to practise their new skills at home and share them with their family.
Session Six
During this session the members of the group are encouraged to reflect upon their learning and celebrate their success. Parents are supported to identify their next step and engage with any other service or learning opportunity that may be available.
