Have a question?
Send enquiry
Message sent Close

Description

Introduction

We know that every parent wants the very best for their teenager, but the teenage years can bring a whole new set of challenges. There may be changes in behaviour, increasing independence, or difficulties around communication, boundaries or emotional wellbeing. Whether you’re in a good place and want to build on your relationship, or you’re finding things tough and looking for support, this course offers a chance to explore practical ideas in a safe, supportive and non-judgemental environment. It’s a place to share experiences, learn from others and develop strategies that really work in everyday family life.

A Course You Can Trust

Time Out for Parents – The Teenage Years is a structured, six-session course designed by parents and professionals to support families through this important stage. It doesn’t offer a one-size-fits-all approach; instead, it helps parents reflect on their own experiences and discover solutions that work for them. Across the programme, you’ll explore key topics such as understanding teenagers, building emotional resilience, improving communication, setting boundaries and navigating more complex issues like relationships, risk-taking and the digital world.

The course is based on well-established psychological research and practical parenting approaches, helping parents to build confidence, strengthen relationships and support their teenager’s emotional and social development. It is designed to be realistic and achievable, giving parents ideas they can try out straight away. Many families find that even small changes can lead to meaningful improvements, helping to create stronger connections and a more positive home environment over time.

Who is it for?

Parents and carers of young people aged 11–19 who would like guidance and support in helping their teenager’s social, emotional and behavioural development.

Group Size

Groups of approximately 10 – 13 adults work really well.

How will I learn?

Most of our courses are delivered online via Google Meet. We use breakout rooms for small group discussions, we show videos, collaborate using shared boards and follow a ppt for focus.

Content

1. Understanding Teenagers

In this session, we will:

  • Learn about the key physical, emotional and social changes that happen during the teenage years;
  • Explore how the teenage brain develops and how this affects behaviour;
  • Reflect on the goals of parenting and what we are aiming for long-term;
  • Identify practical ways to support our teenagers as they develop their identity and independence.
2. Emotional Wellbeing

In this session, we will:

  • Explore how temperament influences our teenager’s behaviour and how to work with it;
  • Learn about emotional wellbeing and how to meet our teenager’s emotional needs;
  • Increase understanding of common mental health issues and how to respond to concerns;
  • Develop strategies for staying connected and building a positive emotional ‘bank account’.
3. Communication

In this session, we will:

  • Learn what helps and hinders effective communication with teenagers;
  • Develop skills for listening well and responding with empathy;
  • Explore the feelings behind behaviour and how to respond constructively;
  • Practise using ‘I’ messages and develop positive communication habits.
4. Parenting Styles and Boundaries

In this session, we will:

  • Explore different parenting styles and how they influence behaviour;
  • Understand the importance of consistency in setting boundaries;
  • Learn how to negotiate effectively with teenagers;
  • Develop strategies for choosing our battles, setting consequences and agreeing house rules.
5. Big Issues

In this session, we will:

  • Explore the reasons behind teenage risk-taking behaviour;
  • Learn how to talk confidently about difficult topics;
  • Increase understanding of issues such as alcohol, drugs and relationships;
  • Reflect on how to guide our teenagers while maintaining a supportive relationship.
Session 6. Big Issues, Strong Families

In this session, we will:

  • Explore how to help teenagers respond positively to peer pressure;
  • Learn strategies for parenting in a digital world and managing screen time;
  • Increase awareness of online risks and how to keep teenagers safe;
  • Develop ideas for strengthening family relationships through shared values and traditions.

Questions

What's the cost?

We aim to secure funding to help subsidise our courses wherever possible.

When a fee is required, we keep costs as low as we can, typically £90 for the full six-week (12-hour) course, which works out at £15 per session or £7.50 per hour.

If a subsidised course is available, this will be shown on the scheduled courses page, alongside any full-cost options. Please note that prices may vary slightly depending on group size.

Do I need to attend the whole course?
We encourage you to attend all sessions, as each one builds on the last. However, we understand that from time to time things like illness or unexpected events may mean you need to miss a session. If that happens, you can catch up by reading through the session materials.
Where does it take place?

We deliver our courses mainly online via Google Meet, however sometimes we may deliver a course in a school or local community centre in Bath, Bristol and surrounding areas.

Will there be reading materials?
Yes, we’ll make sure you have access to all the relevant reading material via our website, and by email.
Is there anything I need to bring to the sessions?

Not really. You can bring a pen and paper if you would like to make notes as you go, however, we’ll make sure you have access to everything we produce in the sessions as well as the presentation slides and reading materials.

I don't have a tablet or laptop. Can I join using my phone?

Whilst it’s possible to join and take part in the course using just a mobile phone, you’ll find your experience is improved if you use a tablet, laptop or desktop computer.

The bigger the screen the better the experience. Plenty of parents do take part using their phone, however.

You might be able to use a computer in your child’s school, children’s centre or community centre, so we suggest asking it that’s possible.

Sessions: 6

Duration: 2 hours

Delivery: Online or face-to-face