As part of the project "Building Safe Families: Preventing Gender-Based Violence for Child Wellbeing," the YMCA of Pamunugama held an awareness programme for parents at the YMCA Main Hall, bringing together 40 parents and 8 YMCA youth members.
The project is carried out by the YMCA of Pamunugama in partnership with UNFPA, FISD and NCYSL, and aims to build safer, more supportive family environments for children.
The session, facilitated by Dr. Alex Perera, focused on helping parents understand their children better and build stronger relationships with them. He guided participants through positive ways of working with children, understanding children's behaviour, managing their own emotions when responding to their kids, and being positive role models at home.
Dr. Perera also introduced the parents to simple breathing exercises to help calm the body and mind — practical techniques they could use in the middle of a stressful moment with their children.
A key message of the session was to look past the behaviour itself and ask what's driving it — what feelings, needs or experiences a child might be carrying. Patience, open communication, respect and positive parenting were all emphasized as the foundation of a safe family environment.
Parents took part enthusiastically, and many shared their thoughts at the end of the session. Several said the programme moved them and pushed them to reflect on how they treat their own children. Many spoke of wanting to make real changes at home, and felt the session gave them tools to raise their children in a more supportive way. Parents also thanked the YMCA of Pamunugama for continuing to run programmes that address issues that matter so much to families.
The programme was a reminder that change starts at home. By helping parents understand their children, manage their own reactions and lead by example, the project is helping build healthier families and a safer space for children to grow up with dignity, respect and care.
Building Safe Families starts with understanding, honest communication, and parents willing to be the example they want their children to follow.
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