Reconnecting Parent and Child(ren)

Renew offers a reunification program uniquely designed to support parents experiencing separation or divorce. Sessions are one-on-one so the content is tailored to address concerns raised by the client or courts. As part of our client-centred approach, session hours are flexible to accommodate work and family schedules and session durations are amenable based on personal goals or time constraints. This course is ideal for a partner who has been estranged from their child(ren) and is hoping to or will be beginning access visits in the near future. Below is an overview of the modules offered:

Developmental Stages: 

• Exploring emotional, cognitive, physical and social needs of the child and appropriate expectations at that stage of development.

Communication:

• Linking the developmental stage of the child to appropriate communication strategies.
• Psychoeducation regarding the impact of an absent parent in the life of a child.

Separation Anxiety :

• An overview of the types of anxieties that can emerge in children who are separated from a parent and how to recognize the signs and respond appropriately. 

The First Access Visit:

• Planning the first few access visits. Discussion centres on the child’s emotional, social and cognitive needs. Factors such as the length and location of the visit, who is present, and communication with the custodial parent will be considered.

Consistency and Predictability:

• Factors that can interfere with the reconnection and the impact on the child’s emotional well-being. Topics explored: cancellations, no shows, arriving late and/or long periods of time between access visits. 

Responding to Difficult Questions:

• Supporting parents to listen and respond to difficult questions raised by children in an age-appropriate manner

Parental Needs:

• Supporting non-custodial parents to recognize and acknowledge their own feelings and needs around being separated from their child, managing difficult information such as the other parent getting a new boyfriend or girlfriend, a child’s preference to only sleep at one parent’s house in the beginning, or preferences about how one parent does certain things will be discussed

*Between Session Challenges (homework):

• Participants will receive assignments required for completion between sessions. Assignments are designed to encourage parents to reflect upon the difficult stage they are going through, their associated feelings and needs, and the solidifying of new knowledge.

Duration: 10-hours (flexible scheduling)

Mode of Facilitation: One-on-one (private), online

Instructor: Family Coach (Registered Social Worker) 

*Based on Group Benefits Plan, fees for service may be covered under Social Work