Because programs that support parents are needed now more than ever, Children’s Trust continues to work with its partners across South Carolina to deliver services to children and families during the coronavirus pandemic. While social distancing has limited much of the in-person contact usually employed by our prevention programs, our partners have skillfully adapted their work to ensure children and families receive the support and resources they need to stay strong in these trying times. Earlier this year Triple P (Positive Parenting Program) service delivery began in Greenville County through activating organization Greenville First Steps with funding and support from Children’s Trust. Virginia Bikas, the Triple P community capacity coach in Greenville for Children’s Trust, and Nicole Sheppard, Greenville First Steps program director for the Triple P project, are guiding this effort. As one of the trained Triple P practitioners, Anna Claire Butler, a school counselor at Taylors Elementary with Greenville County Schools, gives parents practical strategies to help them build strong and healthy relationships, confidently manage their children’s behavior, and prevent problems from developing. She shares her experience to date on putting the program into practice during these difficult times.
Tell us why you had an interest in becoming a Triple P practitioner and what you believe this program can accomplish in your community.
“I wanted to be a Triple P practitioner because I knew it would be a great way to connect and work with the parents of the children that I serve. Children are the future of this community, and I believe if we can deliver Triple P to more parents, it’s going to impact the well-being of our children, which is going to make our future bright!”
Are you seeing the impact of added stress related to the coronavirus pandemic on parents and families?
“The added stress related to this virus is real. I have heard the fear in parents’ voices when they have told me they have lost their jobs and are struggling to put food on the table. I have seen the confusion and sadness on kids’ faces when I have had to deny them a high-five. I have watched parents and kids leave our school building with their bag of belongings in tears because they don’t know when they will return. I have seen the disappointment in children’s eyes when they aren’t allowed to see their friends or teachers, and I have worked with families that have lost loved ones from COVID.”
Anna Claire Butler
How has delivery of Triple P been altered due to the pandemic?
“One of the many positive things about Triple P is that we have been able to offer parenting seminars virtually during this pandemic. Offering these classes virtually has not changed the content of the seminar at all and has allowed parents to participate in the comfort of their own home.”
Are the lessons of positive parenting more important than ever in these difficult times?
“The principles of positive parenting are more important than ever right now because they can help parents create a safe, secure and loving environment during a time that is so uncertain and scary.”
What do parents need to understand as they move forward?
“One of the most important things for parents to remember as they navigate these challenges is that there is no single right way to be a parent. When you make your children and family a priority, parenting can be more enjoyable.”
