Families with children have their own special character. As parents your life changes in ways you never imagined possible. Kids are great. They remind you of the joyful, playful scramble of your own childhood.
They also depend on you to be reasonable when they're not; to be responsible while they goof off; and to be loving when you feel like spitting tacks.
The following links investigate some of the issues you'll face in a family with children.
Family Co-operation, Starting Early
A long term investment in building up a co-operative style in your family may save you a lot of aggravation in the long run.
From the Kids
Here is a colourful reminder of what kids need from the adults in their lives. You can download a copy of the poster or ask for a copy at a Relationships Aotearoa office.
Parents in Control
Everyone can learn to parent without hitting. Our counsellors can help you to work out ways to manage behaviour that will work in your family.
Starting a New Family
Starting a New Family together with And Baby Makes Three let you in on what's in store for new parents and offers some ideas about how to survive the initial chaos one tiny new individual can create.
And Baby Makes Three
Starting a New Family together with And Baby Makes Three let you in on what's in store for new parents and offers some ideas about how to survive the initial chaos one tiny new individual can create.
When Your Kid's Friends Don't Suit You
What about your kid's choice of friends? When Your Kid's Friends Don't Suit You asks what you're basing your view on and looks at some possible courses of action.
When Your Kid's Friends are a 'Bad Influence'
On the same theme When Your Kid's Friends are a 'Bad Influence' looks at your role in supporting your child to make good life choices for themselves.
I'm Sorry Mrs Jones
Safety is a constant issue with children. I'm Sorry Mrs Jones explores some of the issues around bullying, and what you might do in your family to help your kids learn respectful and constructive ways of behaving.
Supermarket Showdown
Remember that confrontation between the tantrum throwing toddler and the furious parent at the supermarket. How do you keep kids safe in this kind of situation? And who has a role to play?