Casey Rowland understands if someone is a bit uncertain about attending Parent Project classes but she encourages parents to at least consider it.

As the Juvenile Services (JS) family advocate, Rowland suggests that those who are leery about the class to give her a call at 620-793-1930.

“This would give you a chance to discover the ways we can help you with a child who is struggling,” Rowland said. “And I would have the opportunity to zero in on your individual circumstances before the classes actually start.”

Rowland predicated that parents will be impressed with the class curriculum, as well as some of the comments she hears about the classes.

A few examples of positive feedback are:

• Our family has had laughter and love restored. I don’t feel like a complete failure as a mother. Stress levels have gone down and we are more understanding of one another.

• I am being more consistent and learning from my mistakes. Not all kids learn the same way and I hope to keep working with my kids to make our home life better.

• The class made me feel there is hope as a parent and to realize I was doing most things right. I just needed some help with understanding children in this new age. I actually like being a mom again.

Parent Project consists of one class a week for 10 consecutive weeks from 6 to 9 p.m., usually on Tuesdays at 1800 12th in Great Bend.

There is no cost; participants receive a homecooked meal and class materials.

While Rowland, who leads the classes, would prefer advanced notice about attendance, a parent can walk in on the first day.

“It’s helpful for me to become aware of your situation prior to classes beginning,” she said. “But it certainly is not mandatory.”

Parent Project is for parents dealing with out-of-control teenagers, kids who are talking back and not obeying the rules, and everything in between. The child doesn’t have to be a JS client; classes are open to anyone.

Parents of adult children are welcome too.

Step-parents participate frequently, reported Rowland, who is a step-parent.

“I have been in the trenches,” she laughed. “This class can help co-parenting families learn new techniques to build strong, blended families. Step-parents also start to understand how they can support one another, which results in a calmer household.”

Co-parenting is a topic throughout the 10-week series and one of the classes is devoted to the issue.

“I strongly encourage any parent to consider Parent Project,” Rowland summarized. “Even if you come on day one and decide it is not for you, that is okay. I do hope, however, that we can discuss the reasons you decided not to attend.

“Who knows? Maybe it is not right for you now. But sessions are held twice a year and a future series of classes might work better for you.”

The Kansas Department of Corrections-Juvenile Services finances the classes.

20th Judicial District Juvenile Services empowers youth in Barton, Rice, Ellsworth, Stafford and Russell counties to achieve positive outcomes by offering Juvenile Intake & Assessment, Immediate Intervention, Intensive Supervised Probation, Case Management, Journey to Change, Life Skills, All Stars and Youth Crew. Parents and guardians also are offered The Parent Project. Visit 1800 12th in Great Bend or call 620-793-1930.