Young parents have a set of unique needs, and an ongoing peer support group in Cochrane hopes to connect those moms and dads to swap stories, have some laughs and learn from each other.
“Our goal for the program is to support young parents, to identify their own strengths, and to work toward personal and interpersonal outcomes,” said early childhood development liaison Jennifer Isaac.
“We want to help young parents to thrive rather than simply to survive.”
Facilitated by Cochrane Family and Support Services, the Young Parents Link program brings together parents ages 24 and younger each Monday afternoon at the Parent Link Centre on First Street West.
At the informal playgroup, Isaac discusses meals planning, managing a budget, developmental milestones and discipline with the families who attend. There is also time for parents to ask questions of both the group facilitators and their fellow parents.
The program is free of charge and kids are welcome to come and play.
Isaac said while general issues all parents face are universal, many young mothers and fathers are still also working through their own growth and independence at the same time.
She added that becoming a parent can be a “catalyst for growth.”
“It can be a game changer,” she said, adding the paradigm shift in lifestyle and peer group can often cause new moms and dads to feel lonely and even judged by other, older parents.
Isaac shared a comment from a 23-year-old mom who attends Youth Parent Link with her 17-month-old daughter, who said,” Generally, young parents are not wealthy and I feel judged sometimes.”
Isaac said she hopes more young parents will feel empowered to attend.
“It’s just a very lovely place – very comfortable, very fun,” said Isaac. “It would be really nice to … have more young parents come and enjoy the company of each other. Even if you can make one connection with one person … just take baby steps … check out the program and see what we have to offer and be open to the new experience.
“It’s always nice to know that you’re not alone.”
Youth Parent Link runs each Monday up to and including Dec. 18 from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Drop-in is welcome, though parents can also register ahead of time at (403) 851-2266.
