Bay pilot parenting programme extended

Tony Ryall. Photo/file

A programme which sets parents up with simple and practical strategies to cope with challenging behaviour is being trialled in the Bay of Plenty.

The Triple P Positive Parenting Programme is also being piloted by MidCentral, Counties-Manukau and Waitemata district health boards and has already reached nearly two thousand parents or caregivers.

Health Minister Tony Ryall said the programme was now being extended until June 2016.

"This initiative is making a real difference for many families. Caregivers are reporting their child's behaviour has improved and their parenting is more rewarding and less stressful," Mr Ryall said.

Through the free programme, caregivers are able to have one-on-one sessions or attend workshops to discuss common parenting issues.

The initiative began in 2011, with $1.3 million of funding per year provided by the Ministry of Health. It targets children aged from 3 to 7 years.

The Triple P Positive Parenting Programme was developed in New Zealand by Professor Matt Sanders. He is now the Director of the Parenting and Family Support Centre at the University of Queensland, and an Adjunct Professor in Parenting Studies and Family Psychology at the University of Auckland.

The Triple P system has twice won the National Violence Prevention Award from the Commonwealth Heads of Government, and is being used in 25 countries.