‘Circle of Security’ Strengthens Parent-Child Relationships

Raising a child is a parent’s most important job, and as any parent or caregiver knows, it can also be the most challenging. Each child has unique personality traits, needs and wants. However, there is one thing that all children need regardless of their differences: a safe and nurturing relationship with their parents or caregivers.

In Yavapai County, a free parenting class called “Circle of Security” focuses on this important relationship. The class, taught by Early Childhood Mental Health Specialists Anjaneane Knudsen, Leah May and Laura Crimmins, has been made free to parents and caregivers of young children through a grant from First Things First. Participants attend the class over several consecutive weeks for a total of twelve hours. Through the class, parents learn about child development, attachment, discipline, and building their relationship with their child. They also get the opportunity to connect with each other. To make sure the class environment feels safe, confidential and comfortable, the class capacity is set at 15 people.  

Early Childhood Mental Health Experts Leah May and Anjaneane Knudsen
lead a discussion during “Circles of Security”, a free parenting class

Research has demonstrated the benefits of a secure relationship between parent and child. Children with a secure relationship with their parents have better friendships, higher self-esteem, and better problem solving skills. They are also more likely to trust their parents and turn to parents in times of trouble.

‘Circle of Security’ came highly recommended to Lillian and James, a couple who will soon be adopting their two grandnephews. “We’re taking this class so that we can better recognize their wants and needs,” said James. “We would also like to learn communication techniques and better forms of discipline.”

Colleen Reckrow, who has a young son, said that her husband raved about this class when he took it last year. “I’m here to learn how to better connect with my son, read his emotions and help him to handle his feelings,” said Colleen. She also said she was looking forward to connecting and learning with other parents in the area.

Children learn about the world through their relationship with their parents, and it is also through this relationship that children learn to behave. Through Circle of Security, parents are given the opportunity to reflect on the way they were raised and how this affects the way that they parent their own children. With this awareness, and by forming stronger, more nurturing relationships with their children, parents can help their kids grow into healthy, confident and competent adults of the future. 

For more information about Circle of Security, please contact Anjaneane Knudsen at 928-925-5130. To find other parenting education classes near you, please visit ParentsAZ.org.