A parenting program should focus on parent's attitudes to themselves, their children, and the relationships they are building with their children.

I consider parenting skills, those skills that help children: (1) develop clear and important goals; and (2) figure out flexible and persistent ways of achieving their goals.

Attitudes of optimism, of "let them be", and of joy in watching and helping another life develop and blossom will help parents relish their parenting role and will provide the resilience necessary to navigate turbulent times.

There is no one best way for parents to become the parents they want to be just as there is no one best way for a child to grow into a contented and contributing member of society.

Sometimes offering support and making yourself available when the child or adolescent is ready to talk can be the most helpful you can be.

Accessing a "professional listener" such as a psychologist or counselor can be useful if the loved one wants to use this form of support.

A parenting program should focus on parent's attitudes to themselves, their children, and the relationships they are building with their children.