Cheroor: If parenting were a test, the mothers of Cheroor would easily score top marks. Having completed a year-long training programme on the subject, they have gained a deeper understanding of parenting that goes far beyond daily chores and serving meals.

The programme, which included classes and discussions, covered a wide range of topics—from handling children’s emotions and stress to enhancing communication skills, nurturing decision-making abilities, and resolving conflicts.

Titled Holistic Approach to Parenting, the training was launched under the Snehajalakam programme and has been hailed as a remarkable success. Dr. Srevidaya S Marar, Child Development Project Officer, inaugurated the year-long initiative last year, which saw the participation of over a hundred mothers from the area.

In addition to parenting skills, the mothers also received training in entrepreneurship. The programme was initiated under the guidance of Division Councillor Villi Jijo, a social worker who also served as the resource person for the sessions. This initiative led to the formation of a collective of mothers within the division, with the training conducted across the seven Anganwadis in the area.

The next batch of the Snehajalakam scheme has also been announced, with classes scheduled on the third Friday of every month. Counselling sessions will be available for those requiring additional support.

“To conduct these classes, a special parenting course by NIMHANS was completed. The mothers attended each session with enthusiasm, and over the course of the year, they underwent remarkable personal growth. By the end of the programme, they had transformed completely. Many positive changes took place among everyone involved. The success of this training lies in their realisation that parenting is a responsibility to society as well,” said Villi Jijo, Division Councillor, Cheroor.