MyTime Karratha

The objective of MyTime is to establish and maintain peer support groups that increase parents/carers feelings of support in their caring role.

MyTime aims to:

• empower parents

• increase their general wellbeing

• increase their confidence and success in their parenting role

• help children and young people to thrive.

A typical MyTime session would have members, their preschool-age children, a trained facilitator, and at least one play leader. The facilitator guides group discussions with a focus on peer support, and sharing information on parenting and services.

There may be speakers or activities organised, or members might just relax with a coffee and talk about their week with someone who understands.

Facilitators allow members to determine the content of individual sessions and discussion topics, while providing evidence-based resources and information about local services and the service system.

Play leaders keep children (up to school age) engaged in appropriate play activities to support parent participation in the groups.

MyTime groups are intended to provide peer — not professional — support.

The aim of MyTime is that, over time, groups become self-sustaining and ideally members will set and pursue their own agenda.

While a facilitator will always be present, continued levels of professional support will vary, depending on the cohesion of the group and the confidence of group members.

Each MyTime group is inclusive, flexible, open, culturally appropriate and delivered in accordance with the MyTime program aims.