Great Bend’s Parent Project Classes Launch September 9—Register Now!
UPDATE: The highly anticipated Parent Project classes are set to begin on September 9 at 6 PM in Great Bend. These free classes, held at 1800 12th, run every Tuesday evening from 6 PM to 9 PM for eight weeks, offering families a lifeline to improved communication and parenting strategies. Dinner will be provided, making it easier for busy parents to attend.
Local resident Sarah Bray, who has experienced transformative changes in her own home through the program, emphasizes the urgent need for families to engage. “Before joining the Parent Project, my household was filled with yelling and chaos,” Bray shared. “Now, we have a peaceful environment, and it’s made a significant difference in our children’s lives.”
Bray, a 39-year-old mother of two teenagers, credits the classes with teaching her family crucial skills. “We’ve learned that it’s okay to step away from situations instead of reacting with anger,” she said. The program has reshaped her family’s dynamic, fostering consistency in discipline and communication.
The Parent Project addresses issues many families face, including anger management and accountability. Bray explained how the program encourages parents to enforce rules without guilt. “When our kids break the rules, we take away their favorite items for three days,” she noted. “It creates a clear understanding of consequences.”
As a professional in the child-welfare field, Bray is passionate about sharing her experiences with others. “I tell families, ‘I know how you feel, and it’s okay to ask for help,'” she stated. “The real failure is not seeking support when you need it.”
Casey Rowland, a family engagement advocate at Juvenile Services, supports the program’s mission, urging parents to recognize that even professionals need assistance. “We are human and make mistakes,” Rowland said. “During classes, I share my own experiences to show everyone that we’re all striving to do our best for our families.”
The Parent Project also invites teenagers to contribute to rule-making, fostering a sense of ownership and accountability. Bray revealed, “Both my kids suggested we stop yelling. It shows they want to be part of the solution.”
For families dealing with more severe issues, Rowland stressed the importance of involving authorities if necessary. “If a child engages in illegal behavior, it’s critical to contact the police or Juvenile Services,” she advised.
To register for the upcoming sessions, families can contact Rowland at 620-793-1930 or via email at [email protected]. While pre-registration is encouraged, interested participants can also attend the first meeting as an orientation to the program. A Zoom option is available for those facing transportation challenges.
The Parent Project is part of a broader initiative by 20th Judicial District Juvenile Services, which empowers youth across Barton, Rice, Ellsworth, Stafford, and Russell counties to achieve positive outcomes. This includes various programs like Juvenile Intake & Assessment and Life Skills training.
Don’t miss this opportunity to transform your family dynamics. Join the Parent Project on September 9 and take the first step towards a more harmonious home.
