Greenwood House School Holds Conference for Effective Parenting 

Funmi Ogundare 

Parents, caregivers, and experts recently converged on the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, for Greenwood House School’s inaugural parent conference to explore the challenges and joys of raising children in today’s fast-paced world.

The programme themed, ‘Navigating the Complexities of Parenthood’, also featured panel sessions on ‘Effective Communication’ and ‘Technology and Social Media’. The breakout sessions covered ‘Early Years Foundation Stage’, ‘Confronting Bullying, and Identifying and Addressing Antisocial Behaviour’, providing a platform for stakeholders to discourse and collaborate on ways to better connect with the younger generation in an ever-changing society. 

The cofounder of Greenwood House School, Dr. Ekua Abudu Akinsanya, described parenting as one of the most rewarding experiences in life, saying that it can also be challenging. 

“We organised this conference to provide parents with the support and resources they needed to navigate the complexities of parenthood and raise happy and well-adjusted children,” said Akinsanya. “Through our sessions, attendees will receive practical skills and strategies for managing modern parenting and dealing with specific issues. We hope that from all the stories and insights shared, you can be inspired and motivated to be more engaged and proactive in your parenting journey and improve your relationship with your children.”

In her keynote address, the founder of Awesome Treasures Foundation (ATF), Mrs. Olajumoke Adenowo, an award-winning architect, stated that parenting cannot be outsourced. 

“Let your children know that their lives really matter to you. To me, the challenges of parenting today stem from parents carrying the baggage of their past, the changing demographics of society, and the rising lack of mentors, among others,” Adenowo explained.

She listed the key factors for good parenting, including establishing clear guidelines, being active listeners, encouraging and keeping them safe from harm, good discipline, and ensuring purposeful time. 

“We are all on this journey together interdependently,” added Adenowo. “Real maturing is knowing you need others and leaving your egos aside to learn and unlearn from one another.”

The former Lagos Commissioner for Education, Mrs. Folasade Adefisayo, a special guest at the programme, emphasised the importance of building strong relationships with one’s children.