Most parents question themselves from time to time, wondering if they are doing a good job bringing up their kids. And this concern tends to become heightened in the teen years when kids start to test limits and challenge rules. To help parents develop skills and tools to do a better job, Amcal Family Services, a non-profit social service agency working with teens and families, has organized a four-part support and discussion group on Wednesdays from October 5 to 26.

Called 21st Century Families, the program is geared towards parents of teens, but any parent is welcome to join. The first session will include an introduction to teen development, discussion about the challenges children face today as well as the services provided by Amcal. In the second week, parents will discuss the different challenges faced by today’s teens and why setting clear boundaries is so important to a healthy, happy family life. The third session will focus on consistency and how parents can ensure that rules (and consequences) are used appropriately and effectively. During the last session, participants will learn how to create a contract that defines the roles and rules that make up their household and how to stick by them. When a contract is agreed upon by all members of the family, it can reduce the likelihood of future arguments.

The program takes place at the Amcal offices, 7 Ste. Anne St., Pointe Claire from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. It costs $50 per parent for all four sessions. Space is limited and the deadline for registration is September 30.

For more information or to register, contact Delia Noel at (514) 694-3161 ext. 223 or email delia@amcal.ca.