Raising healthy, happy, well-adjusted children can be rewarding, but it does have challenging, messy moments. Whether you’re becoming a new parent, raising a teen, or somewhere in between, it’s normal to have questions. And though there’s lots of parenting advice available, it’s up to parents and caregivers to decide what works best for their family.
The health unit offers parenting support and education for families in our communities.
We:
- Work with community agencies to ensure families can access the information and support they need.
- Assess and report on the conditions and services in our communities that impact parenting.
What Matters to Your Health
Time with your children
Spending positive time with your children, whether it’s playing peekaboo, cooking, or doing homework, will help them learn how to have positive relationships throughout their lifetime. Part of your role as a parent is to encourage your children to try things on their own, and to be ready to help them when they need you.
Staying safe
From infancy through the teen years, you can help your children stay safe by:
- Using car seats.
- Teaching them to look both ways before they cross the street.
- Using internet parent controls.
- Knowing where your teen is going and who they will be with.
Expectations
It is important that your children understand how you expect them to behave and the consequences if these expectations are not met. Your expectations must be realistic, based on your child’s age and development. Know that no child or parent is perfect and that supports for parents and families are available. Don’t forget, taking care of yourself is important too.
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