PARENTING ASSESSMENT SKILLS DEVELOPMENT SERVICES HOME BASED PROGRAM
I had fun playing inside and outside
Mum and dad played new games and sang songs
Mum talks to me lots and sits with me
Being in this program has allowed me to bond with Charlie again and my confidence in my ability to parent has increased. I learnt to play and have fun and how to settle him. I notice more things about Charlie than I did before. I talk more to Charlie and notice him talking/babbling more back to me.
We use an individualised approach with each family, building parenting confidence and skills and strengthening parent-child relationships. It is very rewarding to see parents become more confident in their own abilities and connect with their children.
Under the current COVID-19 Pandemic QEC has made some changes to how this program is delivered. The 10 day PASDS is now being delivered via telehealth and a five day/four4 night admission to QEC’s rResidential unit. The PASDS program is available to families working with the Department of Human Services’, Child Protection Unit. Staff work closely with you and your family to help identify the parenting skills that you do best and those areas that are difficult for you. Staff will work with you to help you develop your parenting skills and get to know the support available in your local area.
The first five5 days are focussed on an initial assessment, care planning with the families and intensive one to one teaching and support, all via telehealthTelehealth. During the next five5 days families participate in a group parenting skill development program and one to one teaching, including group education sessions. In the final days there is reassessment of the progress that has been made, consolidating learning and future planning.
If needed please bring infant formula, teats and bottles. Sterilising equipment is provided. You will also need to bring:
• Disposable nappies
• Current medication for each person attending
• Medication or vitamins in their original packaging (i.e. not in other containers)
• Medicare Card, Health Care Card, Pension Card, if applicable, for each person attending.
• My Health, Learning and Development Book (green book)
• Toiletries
• Clothing for parents and child, hats, sunscreen, rain coat, warm jacket as per the seasonal requirements.
• Pram and/or stroller
• Dummies, if used
• Special toy or security item labelled with your child's name
• There are hydronic heaters in the room; however you may bring an extra blanket /doona if required.
• Contact details (phone numbers, email addresses) for other professionals involved with your family e.g. GP, Paediatrician, Maternal Child Health Nurse
Can someone come with me for support?
We encourage and welcome both parents to participate in the QEC program. If you are parenting alone, you are welcome to bring a support person.
What if my partner has to work?
Partners unable to stay for the five day program are encouraged and welcome to attend at any time and stay overnight when possible. This enables partners to participate in education groups and learn and practice parenting strategies together.
Are there only double beds for adults?
QEC residential unit has a mixture of rooms with double and twin single beds. If you require a specific type of room, please contact QEC to make sure they can accommodate your needs.
What if I am unwell on admission day?
We cannot admit anyone who is unwell at the time of admission. It is important to let us know (preferably prior to admission) if you or your child have any signs of illness which could readily be transferred to other families or staff members. If necessary we can reschedule your booking.
Do I need to bring my own food?
Fresh family meals are provided each day for you and your children from our on-site kitchen.
What if I have a specific dietary need?
If a family member has specific dietary needs (e.g. gluten/wheat free diet, Halal, Kosher, Vegan ) please advise a week prior to admission.
What do I do if my baby is wearing nappies?
QEC is required by law to dispose of disposable nappies. Please bring your own supply of disposable nappies. Nappies will be disposed of by ‘Pink Lady Disposal’.
What if I use cloth nappies?
For the length of your stay, we ask that you use disposable nappies that are removed regularly from site for the comfort of all families and staff.
What happens about my medications?
You will be responsible for administering your own and your child’s medication that you bring with you. It is your responsibility to store medications safely in the room safe provided for your stay.
Bring medication or vitamins in their original packaging(i.e. not in other containers).
What if I forget something?
QEC does not have a store on site, but is ten minutes walk from the Noble Park shops with supermarkets, chemists and general shops for you. QEC does have emergency stock of some general items if required.
What happens to the things I bring with me whilst I am busy through the day?
You have a safe in your room for storage of your valuables and medication.
It remains your responsibility to care for any belongings that you may bring to QEC. Each bedroom has a security swipe access.
Where do I park my car whilst I am there?
There is plenty of parking on site. QEC takes no liability for damage, loss or theft of personal property or vehicles so please remove all valuables.
Can I leave to go out to attend an appointment or prior commitment?
You can leave the program at any time but we suggest you limit the time away from the program to a minimum, to provide you with the best opportunity to gain education and support, practice techniques and strategies and increase your confidence to apply them at home.
Will my family be safe at QEC during the COVID-19 pandemic?
QEC is taking extra precautions to keep families and staff safe. We:
• Have enhanced cleaning of high touch surfaces, such as doorknobs and taps
• Are ensuring physical distancing is observed between adults, with clear signage about room capacity
