Parenting Programs that Help Parents and Teens Grow Together
Relationships matter. In providing guidance to kids current research tells us that good relationships are key to healthy development and healthy families. When parents and kids are connected, kids are more willing to accept suggestions, ask for help and discuss options.
BGC Parenting Programs are based on the belief that all families have the ability to make positive changes in their family relationships.
Parents of preteens/teens are taking on a new role. Moving from manager to consultant, they are still very much involved and connected to their youth, but not calling all the shots. It is important for parents to encourage independence and decision-making so that their youth are equipped with the life skills that set them up for success.
Providing discipline is complex. Many parents are looking for support that addresses their current parenting issues in a positive and respectful way and encourages them to focus on what is best for their family. BGC Parenting Programs can help.
Think a parenting group might be right for you? BGC South Vancouver Island provides nationally developed parenting programs for teens and pre-teens based on a model of education and group support.
What are meetings like?
- education on relevant parenting issues and common concerns raised in your group
- support and connection with other parents
We offer 3 FREE Parenting Programs – Parents Together, an ongoing weekly parenting group online and for those who prefer a more structured session – Parents in the Know is our 10 week in person program and Parenting without Power Struggles for parents of kids aged 8-12
Parents In The Know
For those that prefer a structured program, parents of teens attend this 10-12 week professionally-facilitated education and support program to learn more about adolescent development, boundary setting, healthy communication, teen mental health, and other common issues. In a non-judgmental setting, this program helps parents connect with others experiencing similar issues while developing new skills and knowledge that can help decrease conflict in the home and help parents feel better equipped to parent their teen.
Topics include:
- Attachment and relationship-based practices
- Communication and 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
When: Tuesdays in person
Where: 345 Wale Rd
Time: 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm (10 weeks)
Still need more information before registering for the program? Reach out to us at: 250.686.9109 or email: parentingprograms@bgcsvi.org
Parents Together
Sometimes parenting challenges can feel overwhelming. This program for parents of teens provides ongoing support. A manual and materials are provided to participants. Parents may stay in the group as long as they feel they need support and help in their daily parenting. Guest speakers may be invited for specific topics.
Topics include:
- Attachment and relationship-based practices
- Communication and 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
Parenting Without Power Struggles
Aimed for parents of kids aged 8-12, this popular 7 week program encourages parents to build on their family strengths, gain confidence in parenting an emerging teen, and discover practical ideas on how to prepare for the transition from preteen to teen. Our professionally-facilitated programs offer an opportunity to connect with other parents while learning new skills and knowledge that help parents feel better equipped to parent their preteens.
BGC Parenting Programs are family-centered, based on concepts in attachment theory and focused on strengths. We believe in respectful, non-punitive parenting, and place family relationships first in all situations. We reference the work of numerous researchers in the field in our materials and use their concepts to explore parenting.
Facilitated by professionals, participants learn about respectful communication, adolescent development, setting personal boundaries, and the importance of parental self-care. Most importantly, our programs help parents understand that they are not alone in their parenting challenges and receive support from other parents who are experiencing similar issues.
Who participates in Parenting Without Power Struggles?
Parents who participate in this program come from all walks of life. Some parents may have been referred to the program from other community programs or professionals, while other parents may join the program seeking to learn more about parenting a teen and/or to connect with other parents in their community. Some parents may join the group seeking support, while others may be looking for a safe space to share their thoughts.
Time & Location:
July & August 2025 (July 8,15,29, Aug 5,12,19,26)
Tuesdays 6:30 -8:00 pm
345 Wale Rd
Please email to be placed on our list for BGCSVI Parenting Without Power Struggles programs: parentingprograms@bgcsvi.org
Issues / Needs in the Community that Programs Address
Many parents who reach out for support feel guilty, blamed by others, isolated, and unsure about what to do. BGC Parenting Programs can help parents address these feelings in a confidential, non-judgemental group setting.
BGC Parenting Programs are professionally facilitated education and support programs for parents of preteens and teens. Parents come to the group with a wide range of concerns regarding their youth:
- teen mental health
- lack of motivation (school attendance)
- drug/alcohol use
- abusive or aggressive actions
- defiant/rebellious attitude
Complete Your Registration
Online Form Registration
Complete Your Registration
Phone 250-686-9109
Please call or email with your name, phone number, and times you can be reached.
Nicola MacKay, Family Programs Manager, will register you via phone.