Some people have told us that they were worried about attending a parenting course. They felt that others would judge them and would think that they were not good parents. They thought it was only parents who hit their children and didn’t know the first thing about parenting that went to a parenting course.

I can understand that way of thinking. There is often a perceived stigma associated with attending this sort of programme. It is similar to the way some people think about going to see a counsellor or therapist. They are worried that others might think that there is something wrong with them or that they are crazy in some way.

Of all the parents who have attended Whānau Mārama – Parenting courses 99.9% were already good parents. They attended the courses for many very positive reasons. It would be wonderful if others could look through their eyes and see how much they enjoyed the experience, had so much fun, felt acknowledged and supported and learnt heaps along the way.

You may be one of the 332 parents who have attended a Whānau Mārama – Parenting course and believe it was a positive experience for yourself and your family. If so, we encourage you to share your experience with your friends, family and neighbours and encourage them to attend as well. Together we can make our vision come true for more and more parents.