Free seminars to help working parents juggle commitments

University of Queensland researchers are investigating how to best support working parents to balance work and family life.

“Transition times such as getting out of the house in the morning and the dinner rush are the most difficult for parents,” Dr Divna Haslam said.

“Many parents just don’t get a break these days.”

Dr Haslam said there were also gender differences.

Men tended to report that their work life negatively interfered with their family.

Conversely, women reported that trying to fulfil family responsibilities impacted on their work.

“When people try to do it all perfectly all the time, something has to give,” Dr Haslam said.

The world-renowned Triple P– Positive Parenting Program, now in 23 countries, is turning its attention to the unique needs of working parents and evaluating a series of seminars designed to help parents balance work and life more effectively.

“Being a working parent can be challenging but there are simple practical things parents can do to make their lives easier,” Dr Haslam said.

“The goal is for parents to get more enjoyment out of both their work and home lives.”

The seminars cover topics like leaving work at work and home at home, managing stress, relaxation techniques and some general positive parenting strategies.

They are suitable for parents wanting just a few tips, as well as parents finding work-life balance a struggle.

The Employees as Parents Project is offering eligible Brisbane parents participation in Workplace Triple P Seminars, free of charge.

Interested parents, with a child between two and 12, should call 3365 7307 or see www.experiment.psy.uq.edu.au/wptp/

Media: please contact: Dr Divna Haslam on 3365 6163