At 28 years old, I was a very shy and introverted student, navigating the challenging yet rewarding field of social work. On my last placement, I found myself in a situation that was both daunting and life-changing. I was asked to run a group in collaboration with a colleague, and this experience significantly shaped my perspective on parental support and the importance of creating safe spaces for people to learn and grow.
We were stationed in one of the poorest estates in the city, an area burdened with economic hardships and social challenges. My colleague, whose experience and passion for community work were evident, proposed an initiative that initially seemed simple but was impactful: a group for mothers to teach them how to interact and connect with their children through play.
Despite my academic background in social work, I had no hands-on experience with this kind of work. The idea of facilitating a group where we would get down on the floor and play with the children was intimidating. It wasn’t just about play; it was about modelling positive interactions for mothers who were likely exhausted and preoccupied with numerous life stresses.
On the day of our first session, I arrived at the community centre with a mix of anxiety and determination. The room was modestly furnished, with colourful mats spread out on the floor and an assortment of toys arranged neatly in one corner. As the mothers began to arrive, I could sense their weariness but also a glimmer of hope. This group represented a rare opportunity for them to step out of their daily routines and engage in something different.
Our primary goal was to create a safe, non-judgemental space where these mothers could learn and grow. We wanted to offer them a break from their worries, a place where they could simply enjoy time with their children. To facilitate this, we encouraged the mothers to sit with their children on the floor, to play, and to interact in ways they might not usually have the time or energy for.
As the sessions progressed, I observed how the mothers used this time not only to engage with their children but also to connect with each other. They would drink coffee, share stories, and offer mutual support. It was heart warming to see the bonds forming among them, and the children’s faces lighting up with joy and curiosity as they played.
While I wasn’t entirely sure how effective our group was in terms of measurable outcomes, I began to appreciate the importance of these safe spaces. As a parent myself, I now understand the value of environments where one could learn and grow without fear of judgement. Parents who have experienced trauma or ongoing stress need spaces that are not only educational but also supportive and nurturing.
In these sessions, we avoided a top-down approach. Instead, we fostered a collaborative and supportive atmosphere. The mothers were encouraged to ask questions, share their experiences, and learn from each other. This peer-based learning was invaluable; it empowered the mothers and validated their experiences and knowledge.
Watching the women engaged over time, has been rewarding. Seeing them participating actively, laughing and playing with the children. Witnessing this transformation was incredibly rewarding and highlighted the potential impact of our work.
Reflecting on my experience, I realize how much I learned from these sessions. Despite my initial apprehensions, running this group helped me to develop a deeper understanding of the needs of parents in challenging circumstances. It also reinforced the importance of creating environments where people feel safe to express themselves and seek support.
The power of safe, non-judgemental spaces cannot be overstated. These environments provide a foundation for healing, and growth. For people who experience trauma groups can offer a respite from the daily challenges and a chance to reconnect with themselves and others.
If you recognise the need for a space such as was discussed above click the link and join us for the next Healthy Relationships course. This course is designed for Christians to process the impact of childhood trauma on relationships.