CYP Now - Analysis: Parenthood - Children need effective parenting

Bringing up a child is a daunting and sometimes difficult task, and many parents worry they're not up to the job. Fay Schopen talks to the charities that are helping families all over the country re-engage with their children by teaching effective parenting. Anyone who caught a glimpse of Channel 4's Wife Swap last week would have come across a depressing picture of detached parenthood. Phil, a dad of nine, came home from work to drink beer in front of the TV, leaving his brood in the care of wife Margaret. Phil wasn't alone - his wife swap landed him millionaire businesswoman Deirdre, who was too busy to spend any quality time with her three-year-old son. Thanks to the redemptive power of television, Deirdre realised she needed to get more involved with her child (although Phil remained defiantly detached).

Phil and Deirdre are by no means unique - millions of parents across the country need help with effective parenting - and although there is no shortage of organisations to help them, how effectively do they get their message across?

Spreading the word

One answer is to spread the word through national campaigns, says the National Family and Parenting Institute (NFPI). Last week was the institute's fifth national Parents' Week, and a range of activities and sessions took place across the country. This year's theme was Time for Families, something which Parents' Week co-ordinator Christian Jenner says is a "major issue" for families trying to balance work and home life or simply appreciate spending time together.

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