Jo's brain wave

Understanding your child's brain might seem like an impossible task but Jo Patterson, Stratford case manager for Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Taranaki, says that help is on the way.

Nathan Mikaere-Wallis, director of training for the Brainwave Trust, has an international reputation as a lively and engaging speaker and Jo is "absolutely thrilled and excited" to be bringing Nathan to Stratford next month.

"Hearing Nathan speak is always inspiring, educational and thought-provoking," she says. "Some of the things he says give you a 'ka-ching' moment when you can see how it would apply to situations in your own family or job, while other things he says really push you, they challenge your own thinking and make you see things differently."

Jo has spent two years working towards bringing Nathan to Stratford to speak.

"I wanted it to be an affordable option, to reach everyone, not just those who can spend $300 on a day's learning, so it has taken a lot of time, and the support of some great groups and organisations to make this dream a reality."

Jo has organised two events for Nathan, starting with a free evening event sponsored by McDonald Real Estate.

McDonald branch manager Danny Bates says that with many in their office volunteering with Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Taranaki, "we understand the importance of giving children every opportunity possible. To do that, the first step is to understand how children think, in order to build better relationships with them".

Nathan is then giving a day-long presentation, open to all professionals working with children and families. Jo says that more than 200 people have already registered. "Nathan is a well-known and respected expert, so people are jumping at the chance to hear him speak, especially when the day, including lunch, costs a tenth of what a similar event would cost elsewhere".