This informal CPD article, ‘Why parenting programmes can reduce the impact of poverty on children’, was provided by Kids Matter, who have a vision to see every child in need raised in a strong family and a mission to reduce the impact of poverty on children through community-based programmes.
Poverty often creates significant stress for parents, which may affect their ability to provide a stable and nurturing environment for their children; this can have detrimental effects on a child's wellbeing, development, and future success. Parenting programmes aim to mitigate these outcomes by equipping parents with the tools to build strong relationships with their children, in spite of their circumstances.
With increased confidence, a parent is more able to manage stressful and challenging situations with warm, firm, and encouraging parenting; this will have a positive impact on the parent-child relationship – building resilience and creating the best opportunity for children to thrive.
The most effective parenting programmes are delivered by trained facilitators and tailored to the specific needs and challenges of the families they serve. To reduce the impact of poverty on children through increased parental wellbeing and competence, parenting programmes would likely focus on the following:
Mental Health: how the wellbeing of a parent impacts the wellbeing of a child. Programmes might include stress-management strategies and coping mechanisms, enabling parents to be more emotionally available to their children.
Attachment and Bonding: strong attachment can protect children from the negative consequences of poverty by providing a sense of security and emotional stability.
Reducing Negative Parenting Behaviours: poverty can sometimes lead to harsher parenting practices. Parenting programmes can help parents recognise and change these negative behaviours, promoting a more nurturing and positive parenting style with an emphasis on encouragement, listening, and play.
Encouraging Family Boundaries: understanding the root of children’s behaviour and how giving appropriate consequences that are followed through helps build strong relationships. Routines and rewards are also good way to reinforce positive behaviour.
Access to Resources: parenting programmes are likely to connect families with community resources and support services, which can be particularly valuable for families facing disadvantages. This may include access to food assistance, housing support, healthcare, and educational services that can improve the overall wellbeing of children.
Educational Support: there are programmes that focus on early childhood development and school readiness. By educating parents about the importance of early learning and providing strategies to support learning at home, children from low-income families can be better prepared for success in school.
Building a Supportive Community: group-based parenting programmes are as much about building friendships (and community) as they are about empowering parents. Providing a space for parents to share experiences and support one another can be especially important for families living in poverty, as it can reduce feelings of isolation and enhance social networks.
Early intervention is crucial for long-term family wellbeing. The earliest years of life can shape the chance for a child to flourish. If supported in a nurturing and stimulating home, children will do better in their exams, go on to get better jobs, and live happier, healthier lives. When children are given the opportunity to reach their fullest potential, not only is this good for the individual but for society at large.
We hope this article was helpful. For more information from Kids Matter, please visit their CPD Member Directory page. Alternatively, you can go to the CPD Industry Hubs for more articles, courses and events relevant to your Continuing Professional Development requirements.
