Father’s Day is still six months away but local dads will have their moment to shine in 10 days.
St. Albert Parents’ Place is asking local fathers to come out for a rap session to talk about what kind of help they want and need from the resource centre.
Or rather it’s the other way around.
“We have a lot of different staff working in different program areas and they’re all starting to get requests from dads,” explained executive director Sandy Biener.
“What we’re finding is that the fathers don’t typically like to go to the traditional way of sharing knowledge, skills and resources. They’re not always going to go and attend a parenting class that might be three to six weeks long.”
With the enticement of free pizza and beverages, the organization is hoping to have a full house of all kinds of dads to voice their requests and influence its programming.
A lot of these changes are the result of a shift in cultural norms and comfort levels. The programs conducted by men have resulted in an increased responsiveness from male participants. That, and the fact that men have evolved as parents.
“Fathers now are paying a much more active role in parenting children. I think partly it’s got to do with the fact that the stigma isn’t there.”
Trina Goruk, the family life education co-ordinator, is excited about the focus group as well because it means St. Albert’s family resource centre is still broadening its horizons.
“In the past we have tried to do lots of things for fathers like a fathers’ group, fathers’ workshops or a course for fathers but it never really runs. We know there are dads out there obviously; we just wanted to know what we can do to actually get them in and participating.”
Right now, Parents’ Place already offers a variety of adult courses including parenting for all ages of children, as well as parenting in single or blended families. There is also a series of personal growth classes to help with stress management, building self-esteem and maintaining a healthy relationship with your spouse. Outreach courses can also be tailored to meet unique interests of specific groups like daycares or others interested in family resources.
The focus group session takes place on Tuesday, Jan. 18 from 7 to 9 p.m. in the Morinville Room at Servus Place. Please call 780-459-7377 to register beforehand. Every effort is being made to ensure dads feel welcome to the session and even invite their other dad friends.
“There will be a dad facilitating it.”
Visit www.stalbertparentsplace.com for more information. Parents’ Place is located at Suite 10A, 215 Carnegie Dr. in the adjoining office of the Community Information and Volunteer Centre.
