More than 200 parents received guidance and practical support on strengthening family relationships and better understanding their children at the Childcare and Protection Agency’s (CPA) National Parenting Conference on Saturday.

Held at the World Trade Centre, the conference brought together parents for discussions focused on effective parenting, child development and the importance of creating safe and supportive home environments.

Minister of Human Services and Social Protection Vindhya Persaud, who delivered the opening remarks, encouraged parents to seek support when needed and highlighted the importance of patience, understanding and being present in their children’s lives.

Particular attention was placed on families raising children with special needs, with the conference providing parents with information and tools to better respond to their children’s individual needs.

The initiative forms part of the ministry’s wider efforts to strengthen support for families and promote positive parenting practices.

At a previous engagement, Persaud warned that unresolved trauma, emotional abuse and harmful parenting practices can contribute to cycles of violence and dysfunction in families and communities.

She stressed that unresolved emotional wounds experienced by parents can affect their children and shape family relationships.

The conference provided an opportunity for parents to access guidance, build their parenting skills and learn about available government support services.

Human Services and Social Security Minister Dr Vindhya Persaud