1/29/2008 1:10:00 PM First parenting class in Tonalea deemed a success
Motivational speaker James Bilagody speaks to participants in attendance during the first Tonalea School parenting class held Jan. 23. There will be five additional sessions for the next five Wednesdays and will cover topics such as values and attitude, effective communication and our families, our strengths, among others.
Motivational speaker James Bilagody gestures as he addresses the people in attendance at the first Tonalea School parenting class held Jan. 23. There will be five additional sessions for the next five Wednesdays and will cover topics such as values and attitude, effective communication and our families, our strengths, among others.
Story and photos by Christopher Curley Special to the Observer
TONALEA - Tonalea School hosted their first parenting class session with speaker James Bilagody on Jan. 23. With over 40 participants to kick off the first session, Bilagody's approach provided insight to parenting by utilizing his personal experiences, Western and Diné philosophies and humor.
Scheduled to continue for the next five weeks until Feb. 27, Tonalea School invites all parents and surrounding communities to join them every Wednesdays from 6-8 p.m. in the school cafeteria.
One parent stated after the session, "I really enjoyed the session. It was very understandable ... and it was fun. I will be back next week."
Role modeling, the session's main focus, allowed the audience to realize how parents and adults conduct themselves in front of their children. Bilagody pointed out that children may emulate parent and adult actions without considering the consequences of having a negative or positive impact. Bilagody interacted with parents of the positive impact of role modeling, allowing students to persevere and become successful. Other scheduled topics include: values and attitude, effective communication, conflict management and resolution, Improving self-esteem, peer pressure, our families and our strengths.
An approach to encourage successful student learning, Tonalea School is implementing programs to include parenting, prevention services and networking with agencies and individuals to provide additional education and awareness.
Bilagody, from Tuba City, centers his session by using ancient Diné teachings that tells how one must prepare themselves.
"Be prepared! Prepare yourself for life's inconsistencies. There [is] social dysfunction, emotional instability, physical weakness, spiritual uncertainty, and cognitive inadequacy to be faced and overcome. Parents are an important support system toward success of those challenges," he said.
Tonalea School will be providing dinner, door prizes, and refreshments. Registration begins at 5:15 p.m. and closes at 6:30 p.m. To receive full credit for attendance and incentives, participants are encouraged to register early. The next Parenting Classes are scheduled for Jan. 30, Feb. 6, 13, 20 and 27.
Contact Christopher Curley at (928) 283-6325/6326 for more information on parenting classes. Bilagody can be reached at jbbsongs@hotmail.com.
