Linda and Chris became the legal guardians of their granddaughter Sarah when she was 18 months old, following the tragic death of her parents. Both were retired and suddenly faced the unexpected prospect of raising a child. Chris looked for support and saw an advert for the SPACE course run by Donna from the Family Connector project.
He and Linda immediately signed up. They described attending the course as ‘opening their eyes as to how parenting done well could be’. Finishing the SPACE course they both registered for the longer more intense PAACE. Chris says he has learnt to communicate with his granddaughter when she is distressed. As a result, Sarah learnt how to trust her grandparents and was able to change her communication (mainly screaming) to a more verbal style. Linda says that she can now respond more positively to Sarah not listening or paying attention and recognises this behaviour as a sign that something might be distressing her. As a result, Linda feels confident she can support Sarah emotionally when things are difficult.
They both feel attendance on these courses has been a life changer for them and has resulted in the healthy and amazing relationship they have with their granddaughter.
Chris feels that all teachers and parents should do these courses as so many people don’t know how to have healthy relationships with children.