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IFDP First Steps Parenting Support

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About Course

IFDP First Steps Parenting Support is a short, targeted online course for parents and carers of children aged 0 to 12 who want help with a specific everyday challenge. It focuses on the issues families raise most often: routines, behaviour, communication and understanding how children develop.

The course is built for busy parents. Each module takes around 30 minutes and ends with a simple plan the parent can try at home that week. Learners pick out the challenge that matters most to their family and leave with practical strategies they can use straight away.

First Steps is a good starting point for families new to IFDP. Parents who need more support can progress to the IFDP Positive Parenting Skills Programme or the IFDP Family Balance Intensive Support course.

Course Objectives

By completing this course, learners will be able to:

  • Identify the parenting challenge that matters most to their family right now
  • Understand typical child development and behaviour from birth to 12 years
  • Set up simple, predictable routines for mornings, mealtimes and bedtimes
  • Use positive strategies to encourage good behaviour and respond calmly to difficult behaviour
  • Communicate with children in ways that build cooperation and trust
  • Create and review a short action plan for change at home

Supporting Families. Strengthening Communities. Shaping Futures.

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What Will You Learn?

  • Identify the parenting challenge that matters most to their family right now Understand typical child development and behaviour from birth to 12 years Set up simple, predictable routines for mornings, mealtimes and bedtimes Use positive strategies to encourage good behaviour and respond calmly to difficult behaviour Communicate with children in ways that build cooperation and trust Create and review a short action plan for change at home

Course Content

Module 1: Understanding Your Child and Your Challenge
Every family's challenge is different. This module helps parents step back and look at their child's age, stage and needs, and name the specific issue they want to work on. Learners explore what is typical at each stage of development, why children behave as they do, and how small changes from parents can make a big difference.

  • Lesson 1.1: Welcome – Your First Steps Start Here
  • Lesson 1.2: How Children Grow – Ages and Stages
  • Lesson 1.3: What Is Behind the Behaviour?
  • Lesson 1.4: Name Your Family’s Main Challenge
  • Lesson 1.5: Set a Goal You Can Reach
  • Module 1 Check: Understanding Your Child

Module 2: Routines That Work
Predictable routines help children feel secure and reduce daily conflict. This module covers mornings, mealtimes, screen time and bedtime, and shows parents how to build routines that suit their household. Learners also look at how to handle disruptions such as holidays, new siblings or changes in care.

Module 3: Encouraging Positive Behaviour
Children repeat behaviour that gets attention. This module shows parents how to notice and praise the behaviour they want, set clear and fair limits, and respond to tantrums, defiance and sibling conflict without shouting. Learners practise a calm, consistent approach they can use every day.

Module 4: Communication and Next Steps
Good communication is at the heart of a positive relationship. This module helps parents listen well, talk about feelings and build their child's confidence. Learners then review their goal, create a family action plan and find out where to go if they need more support.

Final Assessment
Complete the course evaluation and final assessment to receive your IFDP First Steps Parenting Support Certificate of Completion.

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