Release of magazines and videos containing parenting information

16/5/96

Family and Children's Services Minister Cheryl Edwardes said Western Australian Family Week celebrations this week provided an opportunity for parents to brush up on relationship skills and to learn new ones.

Family and Children's Services has recently released a special series of magazines and videos packed with helpful parenting information.

"The three-part series is divided into childhood developmental stages and tackles subjects including the role of parents, child and adolescent development, effective communication, positive discipline and services for parents," Mrs Edwardes said.

"More than 72,000 copies of the magazines have been distributed free to parents since their launch six weeks ago and they are proving very popular as practical, lively and up-to-date guides for all parents."

Living with Babies covers topics including 'Is my baby normal?', coping with advice, support for parents and sole parents.

Living with Children tackles issues like child development between the ages of four and 12, discipline styles and positive communication.

Living with Teenagers includes adolescent development and strategies to deal with drugs, conflict, alcohol and independence.

Videos based on the magazines feature psychologists, children and parents talking openly about their lives and their parenting experiences.

"Parents today face a variety of social, economic, psychological and practical challenges in raising their children," Mrs Edwardes said.

"The task is never easy but it is rewarding and resources such as these guides can help make the experience even better for parents, children and the extended family.

"Family and Children's Services is there to support parents in all their endeavours and offers a range of services from these guides to direct parent and family telephone helplines.

"I urge all parents to make use of the resources and to contact their local department office to discuss the help options available."

The parent guides are available free from every Family and Children's Services office (listed in the White Pages Telephone Directory) or by calling the Parenting Line on Freecall 1800 654 432.

The videos can be borrowed from public libraries or through the Parenting Line.

Media contact: Diana Russell-Coote 421 7777