We run this in partnership with UCT and ISS. We provide four programmes to promote positive parenting. The focus is on the four stages of a child’s life, starting with pregnancy through to teenage years. It is funded by The World Childhood Foundation.

This programme has four discrete sub-programmes, each with its own objective.

1. Tula Sana/Mama Baba

Objective

To help caregivers form warm, loving bonds with their babies and to understand the social nature of babies, even before birth.

Activities

These include ongoing home visits from pregnancy until the baby is 6 months old. Up to 21 visits will be undertaken by parenting facilitators during this time.

2. Book Sharing/Prente Pret

Objective

To stimulate the cognitive, verbal and concentration development of infants, toddlers and young children.

Activities

This is a group-based course run for caregivers and their children aged 14 months to 5 years. Groups meet once a week over 8 weeks. Caregivers and ECD teachers are taught how to share books with children.

3. Sinovuyo (Gelukkige Familie) Kids

Objective

To help caregivers communicate better with their children, set boundaries, and find pleasure and fulfillment in their relationships with their children.

Activities

This is a group-based course for caregivers with children aged 2-9 years. Groups meet once a week over 12 weeks. The caregivers attend the sessions and a child minder is provided for their children.

4. Sinovuyo (Gelukkige Familie) Teens

Objective

To reduce maltreatment, neglect and abuse of teenagers through enabling positive relationship building within families.

Activities

This is a group-based course for families with teenagers. Groups meet once a week over 14 weeks. The teenagers and caregivers attend the sessions together.