Raising children does not come with a manual, and for many parents, this reality can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to discussing sensitive topics like sexuality. When we first introduced the Parent component, it became clear that many parents struggled to connect and communicate openly with their children. Some shared that they felt completely unprepared. One parent candidly admitted, “I told my child that babies come from eating too much because I didn’t know what else to say.” Moments like these highlighted the deep need for guidance, support, and safe spaces for parents to learn.

The Parent Component was introduced in 2023 after we identified a gap between the children participating in the Girl/Boy Empowerment Program and the support they received at home. While children were gaining knowledge and confidence, many parents felt left behind, unsure of how to guide them through growth, relationships, and age-appropriate sexual development. This realization inspired us to walk alongside parents, equipping them with skills to build stronger, more open relationships with their children.

Recently, we held a Parent Component session at Miondoni Primary School, attended by 75 parents, many of whom came with their young children. The session focused on the importance of open and honest communication and how parents can support their children through different stages of development. Parents openly shared how the lack of communication had negatively affected their relationships, but also expressed hope and eagerness to learn. The warmth, honesty, and willingness to grow were inspiring, and many parents expressed excitement about attending future sessions to continue strengthening their connection with their children. “Veronica shared that the program is good and has come at the right time. She said children are growing up very fast these days, and parents need help to know what to tell them as they grow.”