By Taiwo Akinlami

The Power Parenting® Company LLC, alongside the S.A.F.E® for Children Society, recently held its 22nd series of virtual town hall meetings reviewing the role of parents when a child appears before a school committee.

The latest session, conducted on February 24, 2024, witnessed the engagement of over 200 dedicated participants from a wide array of regions including the US, Canada, Nigeria, and the UK. We were privileged to have insights from distinguished speakers:

• Mr. Okon Agano, Marketing Expert and Dean of Students & Marketing Associate at Bridge Gate Community Schools, Columbus, Ohio, shared his expertise in educational engagement.
• Mrs. Olubukola Adewuyi, Lawyer turned Educationist and CEO of Supreme Education Foundation, Lagos, Nigeria, provided perspectives on educational innovation and leadership.
• Mr. Bosun Adedokun, Founder of Holl Services, UK, and Team Lead at Thesis Consulting discussed strategic consulting and support services for educational institutions.

The session was expertly moderated by Mrs. Ayo Ayeni, the founder of Haven Advocacy and a distinguished member of the Taiwo Akinlami Academy Faculty, with Mr. Taiwo Akinlami presiding over the proceedings.

Key takeaways from the session:

• Strong School-Parent Partnerships: Effective communication and collaboration between schools and parents are crucial when addressing disciplinary matters.
• Keeping parents informed fosters trust and allows them to support their children throughout the process.
• Building Deeper Connections with Children: As parents and caregivers, nurturing meaningful connections with our children allows us to understand their needs and challenges better. This understanding empowers us to guide and support them through life’s transitions.
• Understanding the Evolving Landscape: Staying informed about the complexities of the current generation is essential for effective communication and fostering positive relationships with our children.
• Establishing Effective Disciplinary Processes: Schools should implement clear and well-defined policies and procedures for addressing disciplinary matters. These policies should outline the roles and responsibilities of both parents and students, ensuring fair and consistent implementation.
• Restorative Discipline: Discipline should aim to guide and shape behavior, not to punish or break the child’s spirit. A restorative approach that focuses on accountability and learning from mistakes fosters positive development.
• Character Building: Equipping children with strong character traits empowers them to make sound decisions and navigate life’s challenges effectively.
• Beyond Discipline: While disciplinary procedures can play a role, instilling strong values and ethical principles is more crucial for long-term positive impact on children’s lives.
• Unconditional Love and Support: Even in the face of their mistakes, children need to know they are loved and supported unconditionally. While acknowledging their wrongdoings, it’s essential to be there for them and guide them towards positive growth.

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