Embedding inclusive oral language traditions in young pregnant and parenting programs
P-CMGP is an evidence-based program that strengthens attachment and interaction between parents or carers and their young children, by introducing them to the pleasure and power of using rhymes, songs, and stories together. P-CMGP enhances relationships and reduces caregiver stress while enhancing children’s language and literacy development and improving and strengthening the young pregnant and parent’s emotional regulation. P-CMGP has been embedded in family and children’s services across Canada and North America for over 40 years and across Australia for 20 plus years. In Cardinia Shire in Victoria, a P-CMG young mothers and Mothergoose group was piloted as a new initiative, highlighting positive futures for pregnant and parenting young people. Two interactive groups were planned and supported with youth services with the implementation of oral language strategies and material which became embedded in an infant, then toddler and preschool P-CMG group. Later the P-CMGP became embedded in the YPEP program at City of Casey and City of Greater Dandenong. This interactive workshop designed with adult learning principles will immerse participants in songs, rhymes, and oral storytelling aimed at supporting attachment, emotional regulation, and enhancing the confidence of parents, children, and educators. Participants are invited to sit in a circle, firstly for a conversation style session reflecting on lived experiences, then active participation, repetition, and rhythm. Anecdotes of successful outcomes will be woven through the workshop based upon practice, pilot evaluation, and empirical research evidence. Participants will build on their knowledge of:
- relationship and leadership approaches that elevate young parents by developmental enhancing oral language activities, songs, rhymes, and stories,
- teaching strategies and material to attachment theory and trauma-informed practice,
- oral language traditions aligned to the EYLF principles, practices, and outcomes,
- supporting young parent-child relationships,
- adapting material to support and embrace the diverse needs of their children and young families they work with.
Presenters: Kathrine Bray (President of P-CMGA) and Trina Lucas (RN/RM/MCHN St John of God Berwick Hospital)
Kathrine Bray is one of seven children and became a young mother at 18 while studying to be a Mothercraft Nurse at Chisholm where she later taught Diploma of Children’s Services students. During her career, Kathrine has worked in many Early Childhood Services, including Family Day Care, Long Day Care, Kindergarten and Maternal Child Health and their Enhanced service, at QEC Early Parenting Unit and in Local Government as a MCH First-time Parent Group Facilitator. A mother of three and grandmother of three, Kathrine is owner and proprietor of Parent Ease. Kathrine’s greatest passion is working with young parents, helping and supporting them to bond and attach to their child as an Early Parenting Practitioner in the YPEP program. Kathrine has been running P-CMG programs continuously for over sixteen years and is a P-CMG trainer and President of P-CMGA.