Ukraine’s Social Policy Ministry Launches Stress-Free Parenting Training Initiative

Specialist Training Under the 'Stress-Free Parenting' Program

According to Міністерство соц. політики: In June 2023, 42 professionals from various regions of Ukraine completed training under the program 'Stress-Free Parenting: Developing the Parenting Potential of Parents and Guardians in Times of Uncertainty.' The three-day workshop was led by trainers from the psychological support project 'PORUCH,' run by the NGO 'VHC Volunteer.' The program’s goal is to help parents build the skills needed to manage their own anxieties and effectively support their children through challenging circumstances.

Program Topics and Participant Feedback

The training curriculum covers a range of subjects, including:

• attachment models and fostering secure attachment in children;
• how children of different ages perceive and respond to stressful situations;
• stabilization techniques for parents and guardians;
• response protocols for handling stressful events.

Participants praised the training for its depth and practical value. One attendee shared their experience:

'The training was substantive, engaging, and highly practical. Particularly valuable were the relevant materials, interactive exercises, and the opportunity to exchange ideas with other participants. I gained a wealth of useful information that I can apply in my work. I am grateful to the organizers and trainers for their professionalism and the friendly atmosphere. I plan to use the knowledge and skills I acquired in my professional work with children and parents. The tools I received will help improve interactions with families, promote positive parenting, support children’s emotional development, and create a safe environment.'

The training was delivered by a team of experts from diverse fields:

• Nadiia Kohutiak – PhD in Psychology, Associate Professor at the Department of Social Psychology;
• Volodymyr Mytsko – PhD in Psychology, Associate Professor at the Department of Speech Therapy and Innovative Technologies in Inclusion;
• Nataliia Hevchuk – PhD in Pedagogical Sciences, Associate Professor, Head of the Department of Social Work;
• Nataliia Zhyliak – PhD in Psychology, Associate Professor at the Department of Psychology, Rehabilitation, and Adaptation, psychotherapist.

Ultimately, the 'Stress-Free Parenting' program equips professionals working with children and their families with valuable knowledge and skills, fostering positive parenting and supporting children’s emotional development during uncertain times.

Training specialists through the 'Stress-Free Parenting' program is a significant step in supporting families, especially in an environment where stress and uncertainty have become commonplace. Given today’s challenges, such initiatives help not only parents but also all those working with children to respond effectively to young people’s psychological needs. This training could serve as a foundation for expanding family support programs in the future, which is vital for building a healthier society.