Hello everyone! It’s been a while since my last blog post, as life has been busy yet fulfilling as a working mummy of two. Recently, many of my closest friends have welcomed babies, reminding me of those early days of parenting—whether with a newborn or juggling two children. I often joke that I’m now on level 4 of the parenting game, since I’ve spent four years raising two kids. But truthfully, I could never have managed this journey without the unwavering support of my husband. Parenting is a demanding job, and having a strong, involved partner makes all the difference.
This reflection brings me to today’s topic: strengthening the couple’s relationship to enhance parenting. A while back, I trained at the Tavistock Relationship Clinic in London on a program called Parents as Partners (PASP). This blog will explain what PASP is all about and why parents of children up to the age of three should consider joining this free program, now available through the Positive Parenting Campaign.
What is Parents as Partners (PASP)?
PASP is a 16-week program (two-hour sessions) originally developed in the U.S. by psychologists Philip and Carolyn Cowan. The goal? To strengthen the couple’s relationship so that they can build a more secure, connected relationship with their children. Research shows that when parents work together as a team, children benefit emotionally, socially, and cognitively.
One of PASP’s key focuses is father involvement, ensuring that both parents play an active role in parenting.
Key Themes Covered in PASP
Each session addresses different aspects of family life, including:
- Self-care for parents – Understanding what makes us feel like our best selves and how to support our partner in becoming the best parent they can be.
- Couple relationships and co-parenting – Strengthening communication, identifying unhealthy conflict patterns (like aggression or avoidance), and learning strategies to work together against conflict.
- Parent-child bonding – Establishing a secure attachment with children through special time, praise, and encouraging the other parent’s involvement.
- Mental health awareness – Recognizing signs of depression and stress to foster emotional well-being.
- Family history reflections – Helping parents decide which values and parenting practices they wish to keep or change from their own upbringing.
- Healthy boundaries – Managing relationships with extended family and friends to protect the couple’s and child’s well-being.
This is not a therapy group but a blend of group discussion and psychoeducation. Parents decide what to share, ensuring a comfortable and safe space. Over time, couples often feel more at ease and connected with one another and the group.
Why Should Parents Join PASP?
Research has shown that Parents as Partners leads to:
-Improved couple and co-parenting relationships
-Better communication and teamwork
-Reduced stress and conflict
-Stronger emotional bonds with children
How to Join the PASP Program
As a professional and also a mother, I highly recommend PASP to all parents of children aged 0 to 3 years. It provides a dedicated time to reflect, connect, and grow together as a couple and as parents.
To register, follow Positive Parenting Malta on Facebook and send us a private message for more details.
We look forward to supporting you on this incredible journey of parenting and partnership!
Charlene
Clinical Psychologist and Family Therapist
