Parenting Programs: Growing Together
Relationships matter.
Research shows that strong, positive relationships are the foundation of healthy development and family well-being. When parents and kids feel connected, youth are more open to guidance, more likely to ask for help, and more comfortable discussing challenges and options.
At BGC Durham, our Parenting Programs are built on the belief that every family has the ability to create positive change in their relationships.
As children grow into preteens and teens, parents take on a new role—shifting from manager to consultant. Parents remain involved and connected but also encourage independence and decision-making so their youth can develop the life skills needed for success.
We understand that providing discipline can be complex. Many parents are seeking tools and strategies that promote positive, respectful communication while focusing on what’s best for their family.
BGC Parenting Programs can help.
BGC Durham offers two FREE nationally recognized parenting programs designed for parents of preteens and teens.
- Parents in the Know – for parents of teens aged 13+
- Parenting Without Power Struggles – for parents of kids aged 8–12
These programs combine education and group support to help parents strengthen communication, confidence, and connection within their families.
Parents in the Know - A Parenting Program for Parents of Teens (13+)
Build connection. Strengthen communication. Support your teen.
Parents in the Know is a two-day, professionally facilitated education and support program designed to help parents and caregivers navigate the teen years with confidence.
In a non-judgmental, supportive setting, parents learn about adolescent development, boundary setting, healthy communication, teen mental health, and other common issues.
This program provides an opportunity to connect with other parents experiencing similar challenges, while developing practical skills and knowledge to reduce conflict and strengthen relationships at home.
Topics Include:
- Attachment and relationship-based practices
- Communication and the 6 critical messages
- Developmental changes in pre-adolescence
- Adolescent brain development
- Boundaries and turning over responsibility as appropriate
- Self-care – taking back your life
- Adolescent mental health
- Substance use and teens
Program Details:
When: Saturday, January 10 & Saturday, January 24 2026
Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Where: BGC Durham – 433 Eulalie Ave, Oshawa, ON
Lunch provided | Door prizes Included | Gift for Parent Upon Program Completion
Ready to Register?
Spaces limited – Secure your spot today! Register Here
Need more information: Call: 289-404-1903 or Email: cgenereux@bgcdurham.com
Parenting Without Power Struggles - A Parenting Program for Parents of Preteens (Ages 8–12)
Build on your family’s strengths. Strengthen relationships. Prepare for the teen years.
Parenting Without Power Struggles encourages parents to build on their family strengths, gain confidence in parenting an emerging teen, and discover practical strategies to prepare for the transition from preteen to teen.
Our professionally facilitated, two-day program offers parents the opportunity to connect with others while learning new skills and knowledge that help them feel more confident and better equipped to parent their preteens.
About the Program
BGC Parenting Programs are family-centered, strengths-based, and grounded in attachment theory. We believe in respectful, non-punitive parenting that places family relationships first.
Our programs draw on the work of leading researchers and provide a safe, supportive space to explore practical and meaningful approaches to parenting.
Facilitated by professionals, participants learn about:
- Respectful communication
- Adolescent and pre-adolescent development
- Setting personal boundaries
- The importance of parental self-care
Most importantly, parents discover they are not alone in their parenting challenges and gain support from others with shared experiences.
Who Participates?
Parents who join Parenting Without Power Struggles come from all walks of life.
Some may be referred by community programs or professionals, while others join simply to strengthen their parenting skills or connect with other parents in their community.
Whether seeking new ideas or a safe space to share and learn, all participants benefit from the shared experience and mutual support this program offers.
Program Details:
When: Saturday, February 7 & Saturday, February 21 2026
Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Where: BGC Durham – 433 Eulalie Ave, Oshawa, ON
Lunch provided | Door prizes included | Gift for parents upon completion
Spaces are limited — secure your spot today! Register Here:
Need more information? Call: 289-404-1903 or Email: cgenereux@bgcdurham.com
Youth Skill Building Workshop - Running at the Same Time as Our Parent Programs
Youth Skill-Building Workshops
While parents participate in Parents in the Know or Parenting Without Power Struggles, youth can take part in their own youth-friendly, activity-based program.
These interactive sessions are led by trained facilitators who create a safe, engaging, and supportive environment for youth to explore important life skills through games, group discussions, and hands-on activities.
Positive Outcomes & Learning
Youth who participate in the skill-building workshops gain valuable knowledge and practical skills in a fun, interactive, and supportive environment. Youth will gain a shared understanding of key topics such as communication, boundaries, and self-care, which strengthens family relationships and encourages open, respectful dialogue at home.
What Youth Will Learn:
- Building and maintaining healthy relationships
- Understanding emotions and communication styles
- Setting boundaries and making responsible choices
- Understanding stress, self-care, and mental health
- Learning about decision-making and personal responsibility
- Building confidence, empathy, and problem-solving skills
Benefits and Positive Outcomes:
By participating in the workshops, youth will:
- Develop practical life skills they can use every day
- Increase confidence and self-esteem
- Improve communication and relationship skills
- Gain a greater understanding of emotions and how to manage them
- Learn positive ways to manage conflict and make responsible choices
- Strengthen connections with peers and supportive adults
- Experience empowerment and independence in daily life
- Practice empathy, cooperation, and teamwork
- Feel heard, valued, and supported in a safe, interactive setting
For youth aged 13+
When: Saturday, January 10 & Saturday, January 24, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Where: BGC Durham – 433 Eulalie Ave, Oshawa, ON
Lunch provided | Door prizes included | Gift for participant upon program completion
For youth aged 8-12
When: Saturday, February 7 & Saturday, February 21 2026
Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Where: BGC Durham – 433 Eulalie Ave, Oshawa, ON
Lunch provided | Door prizes included | Gift for participant upon program completion
Issues and Needs in the Community That Our Programs Address
Many parents who reach out for support share similar challenges — feelings of guilt, blame from others, isolation, and uncertainty about how to help their child. BGC Parenting Programs provide a confidential, non-judgmental space where parents can share experiences, build confidence, and learn effective strategies for supporting their youth.
Our professionally facilitated education and support programs are designed for parents of preteens and teens who may be struggling with a range of issues, including:
- Teen mental health concerns
- Lack of motivation or school attendance challenges
- Drug or alcohol use
- Abusive, aggressive, or harmful behaviours
- Defiant or rebellious attitudes
Through education, open discussion, and peer support, parents gain tools and understanding to strengthen family relationships and promote positive change at home
Need more information? Call: 289-404-1903 or Email: cgenereux@bgcdurham.com