Often when a child is diagnosed with AD/HD or a behavioural challenge, the first response from a concerned parent is, "What can I do about it?"

Finding educational resources is a valuable first step a parent can take in helping their child and family cope with symptoms. Another way is to find support and encouragement through other parents facing the same challenges.

Reach Child and Youth Development Society is now offering a way for parents to do this through its Parent Support Circle, a free, bi-weekly, confidential gathering led by a trained facilitator with a focus on parenting children with AD/HD or behavioural challenges.

The Parent Support Circle is sponsored by Reach Child and Youth Development Society (formerly Delta Association for Child Development), Parent Support Services of B.C. and the United Way.

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (AD/HD) is a neurobiological disorder characterized by impulsive behaviour, inattention and, in some cases, hyperactivity. According to the National Resource Centre on AD/HD, three to seven per cent of school-age children, both boys and girls, are affected by AD/HD, making it one of the most common disorders in childhood.

The shortage of parent support services for families with children who have AD/HD or behavioural challenges is what prompted the creation of the Parent Support Circle.

"We highlighted AD/HD because there are no services for this group of families, and often these families are struggling with issues related to their child's behaviour, school work or social relationships," says Lisa Woudzia, Reach associate executive director and facilitator of the Parent Support Circle. "Many of these parents feel overwhelmed or isolated and could benefit from getting together with others in a similar boat."

The Parent Support Circle helps parents learn new ways to nurture their child.

The Parent Support Circle focuses on children with AD/HD, however any parent is welcome. It runs every second Friday from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Reach Child and Youth Development Society, 3-3800-72nd St., Ladner. It is free and confidential.

To register call Woudzia at 604-946-6622 ext. 342 or e-mail lisaw@reachdevelopment.org, or call Bella at Parent Support Services of B.C. at 604-569-3110 or e-mail office@parentsupportbc.

The Ladner Parent Support Circle is also looking for a volunteer co-facilitator. Training will be provided. Anyone interested should contact Bella at 604-569-3110.