Positive parenting: Integrating Sudanese traditions and New Zealand styles of parenting. An evaluation of strategies with Kids - Information for Parents (SKIP)

Positive parenting entails a wide understanding of supporting the physical, social, emotional as well as cultural and intellectual development of children. To better understand the fundamentals of positive parenting within the Sudanese community in New Zealand, it is essential to recognise and appreciate the traditional, cultural views of parents whilst also informing them of the different parenting practices and expectations in their new host country. The literature on positive parenting in a resettlement environment centres on empowering families to understand their parenting practices in their pre-settlement environments in order that they may adjust their parenting in their new settings. The New Zealand Ministry of Social Development Strategies with Kids - Information for parents (SKIP) is a community-based programme that aims to equip families with valuable principles of parenting to facilitate and promote a positive attitude around the role of parenting. This article reports on the experiences of, and evaluation by, Sudanese parents after having attended the SKIP positive parenting programme in Auckland, New Zealand. It discusses the different parenting approaches in Sudan and New Zealand and highlights the importance of providing appropriate and empowering interventions and resources for Sudanese parents living in New Zealand.