Parenting programmes are workshops and/or groups that support you with some of the challenges of being a parent. Parents tell us that they learn a great deal from each other and enjoy the support that a group provides. We offer a selection of free workshops, whatever the age or needs of your child.
Autism Information Sessions for Parents and Carers
These sessions are for parents and carers of autistic children and young people. They are group-based and offer plenty of opportunity for discussion with other parents. We are not here to tell you how to parent your child – we acknowledge that you are the expert on your child. But raising an autistic child in a neurotypical world can be challenging and we would like to help you to navigate this. We always aim to work in a neuro-affirming way. We view autism as a different way of experiencing and processing the world. We do not view it as a disorder or a problem that needs fixing.
We run some specific sessions for parents of autistic children who also have significant communication and learning needs. If you feel these sessions would be more appropriate for you, please highlight this in the application form below.
If you have any access requirements, please let us know. We will do what we can to make the sessions accessible for you.
Please note these sessions are for parents/carers. They are not designed for children or young people to attend. Please make alternative arrangements for your children during the sessions if they are not in school.
We deliver the sessions in 3 sections:
1 An introduction to autism
2 Workshops about different aspects of autistic life, for example:
- Puberty and adolescence
- Masking
- Sleep
- Challenges with eating
- Anxiety and emotional wellbeing
- Sensory processing
- Communication and visuals
- Executive functioning
- Friendships and relationships
3 Individualised support. This might be further small-group workshops. Or it may be one-to-one consultation sessions with a member of the autism team. This is to discuss any specific questions or challenges you may be experiencing.
Register your interest in attending our autism information sessions
Information Sessions for Parents/Carers on the Neurodiversity Profiling Tool
Children and young people who are showing signs of neuro-developmental needs can now access a new tool. This can help identify what support a child or young person may need.
The neurodiversity (ND) profiling tool is the first step in identifying neurodiversity within children and young people aged 0-19. The tool has been approved for use across Cornwall.
If you would like to find out more about the new pathway and how it will work you can access one of our information sessions. A range of dates are available through Eventbrite.
Book an Information session for Parents/Carers on the Neurodiversity Profiling Tool
Standard Stepping Stones - Triple P
Standard Stepping Stones Triple P is a programme for parents/carers of children with a disability (up to 12 years). It provides parents with comprehensive support in supporting their child’s behaviour across various settings. The focus is on:
- understanding the function of behaviour for communication
- teaching the parents/carers and child skills and strategies that reduce the behaviours
This programme is provided for those children open to the Disabled Children & Therapy Service. This is a one-to-one support and is delivered in the family home.
The Disabled Children & Therapy Service
Supporting Parents and Children Emotionally (SPACE)
SPACE is a free programme for any parent or carer who wants to better understand and support their children’s emotions, as well as their own.
This 6-week face-to-face programme will cover:
- Understanding what is meant by a Trauma Informed approach
- Understanding toxic stress and the flight/fight response
- Practical approaches to support children to regulate their emotions
- Healthy coping strategies for dealing with stress
- Managing different emotions
- Understanding behaviour
- Building resilience in ourselves and our children
- Adopting appropriate expectations of children
- Enhancing your ability to provide nurturing care
If you are a parent/carer of a school-aged child please contact your child's school to find out if they are running a programme. If you are a parent/carer of a child aged 5 years and under please book your place with Headstart Kernow.
For more details and to book a place, contact Headstart Kernow
Home-Start
Home-Start Kernow offers support, friendship and practical help to parents with children under 5 throughout Cornwall. Parents may struggle at one time or another, you are not alone, that’s when Home-Start Kernow can help.
Home-Start offer a variety of groups for families and most groups operate every week during term time. Most families will get 6 months of group support, some may be offered places for longer if additional support is needed or needs change.
Come chat and play with us. Visit the Home-Start website to book a place.
Visit the Home-Start Kernow websiteWILD
WILD welcomes young parents, their children, and young people who are expecting a baby. We welcome mums, dads and young parents under the age of 23, and their babies and children under the age of 5.
WILD Young Parents provide weekly groups for young parents across the county, as well as online chat groups and one to one support and help.
Visit the WILD Project website to find out more
Friends of Face to Face Oasis groups
This is for parent/carers of children aged 0-25 with a disability or additional need. The groups offer the opportunity to have friendly chat with trained parent befrienders. They can offer support and signposting and meet with other parent/carers in a similar situation over a cuppa!
Friends of Face to Face Oasis groups Facebook page
Hunrosa
Sleep is essential for our children to grow, learn, promote immunity and good mental health. Children with neurodiversity are likely to find sleep more difficult. Hunrosa have experience and expertise in supporting families. So come to our friendly sleep session to learn about ways you can help your child to sleep better.
Please contact your Healthcare Provider should you wish to have them refer you for sleep services.
Early Help Parenting Programmes
While our Early Help parenting workshops are not specific to SEND, all parents and carers are welcome to join any of our groups. and would benefit from engaging in these sessions. These programmes are evidence-based and provide an opportunity for parents and carers to:
- learn new skills
- develop confidence
- build relationships with others