FDF organises ‘Happy Early Childhood Parenting’ workshop to promote positive thinking among families

The Family Development Foundation organised a workshop titled ‘Happy Early Childhood Parenthood’, at the Women and Family Social Empowerment Club within the Jebel Hafeet Community Centre in Al Ain City. The workshop was conducted by Dr. Aisha Al-Shariani, a program and service officer at the Foundation.

 Through the workshop, the Women and Family Social Empowerment Club seeks to empower families in integrating social skills into their daily routines. The primary goal is to foster positive thinking patterns and facilitate adaptation to diverse living conditions, ultimately enhancing overall quality of life. Additionally, the workshop aims to inspire families to embrace and implement healthy lifestyle practices according to physiological and social changes. It also seeks to raise legal awareness, with a particular focus on women, by disseminating information on their rights and responsibilities, thereby equipping them to safeguard themselves and their family members. Furthermore, the initiative aims to cultivate community engagement, instil values of volunteerism, and promote environmental sustainability in order to foster enduring family dynamics.

Furthermore, the workshop seeks to empower families by providing insights into understanding a child’s thought processes and analysing their feelings and behaviour. It aims to help participants identify emotional and cognitive needs of children during early childhood, encouraging them to adjust common thoughts and rectify common mistakes in their interactions with children. The ultimate goal is to equip families with the knowledge to effectively address various problems and attitudes, by understanding the emotional and developmental requirements of children.

 Dr. Aisha Al-Shariani, program and service officer at the Family Development Foundation, said: “The Family Development Foundation is dedicated to empowering families to integrate social skills into their everyday lives, focusing on discerning emotional and cognitive needs during early childhood. The workshop encompasses the identification of educational goals aimed at fostering a healthy and respectful relationship with children. It addresses emotional fulfilment, effective problem-solving strategies, and a deeper understanding of emotions and thoughts of children during their formative years.”

Dr. Al-Shariani added: “Children upbringing becomes a pleasure when we uncover their emotional and developmental requirements at various stages of their growth. Understanding their feelings and thoughts equips us to interact effectively, tackle challenges, and work towards future goals in their upbringing.”

She continued: “The workshop focussed on addressing the vital needs of children aged 0 to 5 years, encompassing essential aspects such as nutrition, shelter, healthcare, and a secure environment. It emphasised active participation in play, learning, exploration, and developmental growth. Additionally, the workshop delved into the emotional needs of children, including providing care, ensuring safety, offering unconditional love, extending support, encouragement, and respecting the child’s developmental stage. Furthermore, it underscored the significance of appreciating children for their positive behaviour.”

Dr. Al-Shariani highlighted that the workshop’s outcomes are aimed towards equipping families with the ability to recognise their children’s needs in accordance with their developmental stages. This newfound awareness aids parents in comprehending attitudes and behaviours. Furthermore, she highlighted that upcoming workshops will specifically address participants’ situations, offering tailored solutions based on data and stage-specific requirements. This approach involves a deep understanding of the child’s feelings and thoughts.

The Family Development Foundation, through the Jebel Hafeet Community Centre, aims to create an appealing social environment for families and community members. It strives to offer secure spaces that facilitate communication among families and communities, as well as raise awareness and impart social knowledge and skills. The foundation also actively monitors community needs with the goal of improving individuals’ quality of life. This is achieved through various existing social clubs, namely the Barakat Al Dar Club, the Children and Youth Club and the Women and Family Social Empowerment Club.