Transformative parenting skills taught at the Parent Centre

Twenty-eight parents graduated from the Positive Parenting Skills Training course at the Parent Centre in Wynberg on Tuesday, June 10. 

The eight-week programme ran from Tuesday, April 22, to  Tuesday, June 10, with sessions held every Tuesday from 9am to 12.30pm.

Ester Wilson and Berenice Scott were the facilitators for this course.

Ms Wilson said: “The course focused on equipping parents with modern-day parenting skills by encouraging greater involvement in their children's lives. Parents were taught to listen more and judge less, to understand the difference between discipline and punishment, and to realise that parenting is not about policing but about building strong relationships," she said, adding that one of the core messages was that punishment is often linked to violence, and that effective parenting begins with emotional regulation and empathy.

Ms Wilson said the participants described the training as life-changing. 

“They highlighted the sense of camaraderie, trust, and mutual support that developed throughout the course. One parent shared: ‘I now realise that I’m not perfect, but I’m a good enough parent.’ Another admitted that initially, it was difficult to leave home for the sessions, but looking back, it was well worth it. Several parents noted that their children noticed a positive change in them.”

Some of the participants shared their experiences of the course.

Bonita Perrang, of Grassy Park, is a child and youth care worker who supports children within their life space at an organisation.

"One of the biggest takeaways for me was the Robot technique - the idea of stop, think, and respond really stood out. It gave me a better way to approach children, especially in challenging moments,” she said.

Ms Perrang said she also learned about the importance of understanding the difference between punishment and discipline.

“Many of the children who come to our facility have experienced punishment at home. Here, we focus on discipline - and that makes a real difference. Learning to use 'I messages' helps me communicate better about feelings, instead of reacting with anger or frustration.”

Reflecting on the parents' course, she said: “We struggle a lot with children’s behavior, but now I have tools I can use to help shift negative behavior into something more positive. I hope what I’ve learned can be helpful to others too.”

Andre Maggott, of Vasco Estate, Goodwood, shared that when he first joined the course, he had no intention of opening up to others. “I was simply showing up to learn,” he said. “But seeing so many people freely sharing deeply personal experiences really moved me. It encouraged me to open up and share my own story.”

That shift made all the difference in his participation.

“One of my earliest revelations was realising I wasn’t alone - other moms and dads were facing similar parenting challenges. That made a huge difference.”

Mr Maggot said that after applying just a few of the lessons, he began to see a real improvement in his connection with his son.

“I’m extremely happy I attended,” he said. “It’s already made a positive impact.”

The Parent Centre will host more Positive Parenting Skills Training courses in the next few months: In Mitchells Plain: Tuesday, July 22 to Tuesday, September 9, and in Capricorn: Thursday, July 24 to Thursday, September 11  (venue to be confirmed).

These free courses are open to mothers, fathers, and caregivers. Seats are limited, so early booking is encouraged.

• Fatherhood programme: A dedicated Fatherhood course for fathers only is scheduled for the next quarter, with dates to be confirmed in the last week of June. 

For more information or to book a spot to attend these courses contact The Parent Centre at 021 762 0116.