Help is on the way for 91大黄鸭 parents navigating the unique challenges of raising teenagers and pre-teens.

The Okanagan Boys and Girls Club (BGC Okanagan) is offering two free parenting programs this spring, which will provide a sense of community and a safe, judgement-free space to connect, learn strategies and gain support from trained professionals. Parents Together and Parents in the Know will each cater to different needs while serving the same goal of helping parents and caregivers.

Parents Together is a support group designed for those raising teens and preteens facing behavioural, emotional or mental health challenges, and offers a space for families to connect, share experiences and receive guidance from professionals. Skill-building, improving communications and fostering resilience will be the main focus points of these sessions which will run on Thursdays from 5:15 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. at the West Side Learning Lab until May 8.

Parents in the Know is a 10-week program designed to help strengthen communication, navigate common parenting challenges and set healthy boundaries, all in group discussions with expert guidance. The program will run on Wednesdays from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Downtown Library until June 4.

鈥淭hese programs create a space where parents feel heard, supported and empowered,鈥� BGC Okanagan family programs manager McKenzie McFarlane said. 鈥淧arenting is tough, especially through the teenage years, and our goal is to help caregivers build strong relationships with their children and develop the skills to navigate this journey with confidence."