LONDONDERRY, NH – The YMCA of Greater Londonderry, a branch of The Granite YMCA, will hold a six week program called Parenting a Second Time Around beginning in March.
Parenting a Second Time Around (P.A.S.T.A) is a free support group for family caregivers and grandparents who are in the position of raising children again. Topics to be discussed include child development, discipline and guidance, caring for oneself as a caregiver, rebuilding a family, living with teens, legal issues and advocacy.
“This program was developed by Cornell University to support those grandparents parenting their grandchildren,” saidLisa Fitzgerald, Executive Director at the YMCA of Greater Londonderry. “The Y saw such a value in sharing this curriculum/workshop with our families and community due to the overwhelming struggles grandparents have voiced to us throughout our camp and child care programs. They have expressed a significant need for support and resources.”
“Grandparents and caregivers are relieved, happy and grateful that they have found a group of people to listen and talk to who are going through the same experiences,” said Sergeant Aurie Roy, facilitator of the program from the Sandown Police Department. “They have found emotional comfort and no longer feel like they are going through this alone.”
The program will run from March 14 – April 18 on Thursday evenings from 6-8 p.m. at the YMCA of Greater Londonderry. The P.A.S.T.A support group is provided in partnership with Greater Derry Community Health Services, Inc and South Central NH Public Health. There is no cost to attend, all are welcome. Child care will be provided.
For more information, please contact Lisa Fitzgerald, Executive Director at the YMCA of Greater Londonderry at 603.437.9622 or email lfitzgerald@graniteymca.org.
