Parenting Support
Empowering whānau and tamariki to thrive
Free parenting support for North Canterbury whānau
Parenting isn’t always easy, but you don’t have to do it alone.
We offer free parenting courses for all ages of children and a drop-in centre for parents of teenagers.
Our parenting programmes are proudly supported by MainPower.
Parenting Courses
If you’re a North Canterbury parent, grandparent, or caregiver you can attend our internationally recognised parenting programmes:
Tuning into Kids and Tuning into Teens
- Learn how to help your child build strong emotional skills
- Ideal for parents of preschoolers to teens
- Free six-session online programmes, running regularly
- Developed by the University of Melbourne and led by accredited facilitators from Community Wellbeing North Canterbury
Building Awesome Whānau
- A uniquely Aotearoa-based parenting programme
- Designed for parents of tamariki aged 0-12, but helpful for older children too
- Developed by The Parenting Place, drawing on mātauranga Māori
- Practical tools for raising confident, resilient children
All courses are FREE and online options are available.
“The two most important things I learnt from Tuning into Kids is what’s called emotional coaching – acknowledging the feeling of the child in front of you, even if it’s a guess, and understanding my parenting style. I also found it helpful to hear from other parents having similar experiences, ‘cause we can all be really hard on our ourselves.
Drop-in centre for parents of teenagers
Free, confidential support for parents and caregivers of secondary school students.
Get expert advice on:
- Sleep, eating, self-harm, anxiety, and low mood
- Gaming, alcohol, drug use, grief, and life changes
- Navigating mental health services and getting the right support
Appointments available in-person or via video call
Register your interest
Parenting Resources
Mental Health and Wellbeing Resources
Contact Us
Phone
Phone Support
1737 Text or call to speak to a trained counsellor for free 24/7
0800 568 856 Free parenting helpline 9am-9pm 7 days