Joan Durrant is a psychologist, University of Manitoba professor, and author of Positive Discipline in Everyday Parenting (PDEP). The PDEP model merges the Child’s Rights principles of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNHRC, 1990) with evidence-based research on effective parenting and the cognitive, emotional and behavioural changes children experience at each stage of development. It is non-violent, respectful and solution-focused.
By introducing the internationally recognized model, The Redwood’s supportive parenting environment has been greatly enhanced. PDEP is unique because it focuses on parenting children/youth from 0 to 20 ages.
The project consists of two phases: PDEP Program and PDEP Peer Mentorship Program
Over the course of 12 weeks, moms learn to develop long term solutions that in turn will cultivate their children’s own self-discipline and nurture life-long skills. The PDEP learning model focuses on:
- non-violence
- empathy
- self-respect
- human rights
- respect for others
Of the 12 modules, 10 sessions focus on the PDEP learning model, 1 session focuses on mental health and 1 session is reserved for program evaluation.
The duration of this phase will consist of 2 weekly sessions with an emphasis on facilitating PDEP to other mothers out in the community. As Peer Mentors, women will have the opportunity to facilitate workshops and support mothers one-on-one who have survived violence in the community. In the process they are building self-esteem, becoming strong role models for their children and sharing invaluable knowledge with hundreds of women and children in the community.
