SEL4SC was honored to co-sponsor PCI Certified Parent Coach Christine Donavan’s recent practical and interactive parenting class at the Lutheran Church of the Redeemer in Charleston.
Donavan is an acclaimed public speaker, retreat leader, author, youth pastor, camp counselor, and newspaper columnist, as well as the mother of eight children — including some with special needs — and the grandmother of four. She works with parents to help them identify their own parenting styles and strengths, as well as recognize the stressors that challenge their families. Donavan then introduces them to key resources they can utilize to rebuild healthy relationships with their children.
Her recent four-week class featured solid, science- and experience-backed teaching, storytelling — and a lot of laughter. During each upbeat, informative, and fun session, parents learned the importance of approaching their children with empathy, giving them choices, and letting consequences do the teaching.
The real-life situations and practical advice Christine shared resonated with the parents who attended.
“It was nice to know I am not alone at being an imperfect parent,” said one parent.
“I really enjoyed this class, and have already used some of the things I learned,” said another, echoing the sentiment of many who attended.
The class culminated with an emotional introduction from SEL4SC founder Al Estee, who shared details of some of the struggles he and his wife experienced as parents, and who urged parents to implement the skills they learned during the class. Parents then split up into groups and performed skits based on the skills they learned during the previous sessions. Judging by the laughter and applause, their performances were much appreciated by those in attendance.
We’d like to thank everyone who attended, as well as everyone who collaborated to make this event a success.
Interested in hosting a parenting class at your church or other community organization? Contact us for more information.
