‘Shaping Ourselves and Our Children’ moves online

The SOOC programme remains the same and participants will still have the same opportunities to learn together.

SOOC is supported by the EU’s PEACE IV programme and managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) and was developed by the Lifestart Foundation and its partners – Lifestart Services CLG, Sligo Family Support Services, the Dunluce Family Centre, Barnardos Strabane and The Junction in Derry. Match funding has been provided by The Executive Office and the Department of Rural and Community Development.

A spokesperson said: “Our team have all been trained to guide you through the process of going online and being part of an online group.

“Topics covered are of interest to all parents, grandparents or anyone who has an important child in their life. You will get a chance to talk about your hopes and fears for your children and given the strange times we are now living in we are sure you’ll have lots to discuss. We will look at important aspects of child development like attachment, self-esteem, communication, behaviour, empathy and gain an understanding on how our attitudes to diversity are passed on to our children.

“We can provide a small allowance towards babysitting costs so you can relax and enjoy SOOC knowing your child is being looked after.”

The team will also provide participants with a selection of children’s books celebrating diversity along with customised SOOC booklets on key aspects on child development.

The spokesperson added: “SOOC’s webinars will provide an insight on key aspects of child development but focusing on how this has been impacted by the pandemic. We will provide plenty of fun tips and activities that will help you and your family learn about the important things that will help us remain sane! Our first webinar will be hosted on February 1 and you have a choice of times to fit in with your busy schedule at home (10 – 11 am or 3 – 4 pm). “

The SOOC partnership has also bee recognised by the UK Children and Young People Now Awards and are finalists at the upcoming CYPN awards 2020. “We look forward to the online ceremony on March 4. However, we consider this recognition as an achievement in its own right. We are over the moon as it helps shine a light on the great work done by the SOOC partnership and how it has brought to life the goals and objectives of this wonderful project,” the spokesperson said.

To find out more check out the Facebook Page @shapingourselvesandourchildren. For more on the SOOC online course or webinars contact Mary on 00 353 85 154 8508, Sharleen on 00 44 77 4392 1068. You can also email Sharleen at [email protected].