We are thrilled to share the completion of another wonderful Nobody’s Perfect Parenting Program series in the Tigrinya language! Over six weeks in May- June 2024, our third group of Eritrean and Ethiopian parents and caregivers came together to connect, share their stories, and learn from each other while their children played in our adjacent room with childcare providers. Our incredible facilitators, Aida and Yodit, guided these sessions, allowing the interests and needs of the participants to shape the discussions. The series wrapped up with a heartwarming Eritrean potluck feast, filled with delicious food and joyful moments.
Showcasing Our Values
At New West Family Place, our mission is to connect families to one another and to resources in the larger community through our programming. This series exemplifies some of our core values of Community, Love, Growth, and Celebration.
- By offering this course in Tigrinya, we created a space where newcomer families from Eritrea could feel understood and supported. Participants built connections with each other, fostering a community of belonging and mutual support.
- Our facilitators, Aida and Yodit, brought love, warmth and compassion to each session, creating an environment where parents felt safe to share their experiences and challenges.
- The “Nobody’s Perfect” program empowers parents with knowledge and skills, helping them to grow in their parenting journey. The topics covered were driven by the participants’ interests, ensuring the content was relevant and impactful.
- The final meeting’s Eritrean potluck feast was a beautiful celebration of culture, community, and the bonds formed over the course of the program.
Offering Programming in Tigrinya
New Westminster has seen an influx of newcomers from Eritrea, and we recognize the importance of providing programming that meets the diverse needs of our community. By offering parenting courses in Tigrinya, we aim to bridge language barriers and ensure that all families have access to valuable resources and support. Connecting these newcomer families to the community helps them build strong networks, find local resources, and feel a sense of belonging in their new home.
This was our third session of the Nobody’s Perfect Parenting Program in the Tigrinya language, which we began offering in January 2024. Thus far we have touched 31 families through the course!
About the Nobody’s Perfect Parenting Program
The Nobody’s Perfect Parenting Program is designed to support parents and caregivers with children from birth to age five. It provides a safe space for parents to discuss their experiences, share their challenges, and learn from each other. The program covers a variety of topics, guided by the interests and needs of the participants. Some of the subjects we touch upon include:
- Child Development: Understanding the physical, emotional, and cognitive stages of early childhood.
- Positive Discipline: Strategies for managing behavior in a constructive and loving way.
- Health and Safety: Tips for keeping children healthy and safe in various environments.
- Stress Management: Techniques for managing the stresses of parenting and maintaining mental health.
- Building Strong Relationships: Fostering positive relationships with children and other family members.
We are proud to have expanded our offering of programs like “Nobody’s Perfect” in Tigrinya over the past year. By connecting families to each other and to community resources, we help build a stronger, more inclusive community. Thank you to everyone who participated and made this series a success. We look forward to continuing to support families through our diverse and inclusive programming.
