Parent education seminars with Mark Le Messurier

Free Parent education seminars and discussion groups

by Mark Le Messurier, SA Senior Australian of the Year 2022

Each of the following Seminars and Discussion Group sessions are taken directly from Mark’s newest book, ‘Guiding Kids Through the Tough Moments: Techniques to build a space where children can thrive’ (2022).

Family, classrooms, all kinds of human groups are intricate, evolving social and emotional worlds. They exist to protect and nourish but living in them is not always easy. And, when one of us is not doing well, none of us are. This makes them a delicate, dynamic, messy, and endless work in progress. This book centres around those moments when we must get involved, or call a child out on an unsafe, careless, or selfish action. Pitched well beyond the superficiality of make ‘happy families’ or ‘obedient classes’, Mark dives into the colour and chaos of life. In his typical style, he provides guidance for navigating the commotion, the process and grit required, especially in the tougher moments. It’s these moments that reveal what is really happening between children and their parents, educators, or carers. His book outlines a special set of attitudes and skills described as using our ‘soft eyes and warm hearts’. In this space we hold a child or teen accountable using an almost counterculture mindset. One that connects leadership and strength, directly with kindness. This human approach is more likely to leave young people in a position where they might want to feel responsible, make amends and changes, rather than being forced to.

Mark believes that if we are to improve our relationships, outcomes, and futures with this generation of kids we must commit to truthful conversation, reflection, and preparation. 

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