Experiences of young families and young parents

Presenter

Nikita Heremaia

Organisation

Taonga Education Centre, South Auckland

Having a baby is a life-changing event - no matter how old you are. To better understand the challenges and experiences of a group of teenage parents from South Auckland, information was gathered from teenage mothers (and their partners), their parents, grandparents and staff at the Taonga Education Centre established specifically for teenage mothers. Participants were surveyed on a variety of issues including the young mothers' (and their parents') reactions to finding out they were pregnant, evolving roles and responsibilities, continuing education and perceptions of the teenage parenting programme offered by the Taonga Education Centre.

This peer research project explores the notion of parenthood from the perspective of a young mother and her peers. From the views gathered by the students at the Taonga Education Centre it is clear this group of young mothers have significant responsibilities at home, and receive support from family members to care for their babies. They also see themselves as significant role models for their babies. Mixed reactions from parents to their teenager's pregnancy are confirmed by the responses of parents and grandparents themselves. Taonga Education Centre staff report being able to use personal and life skills, in addition to their professional ability to promote educational achievement.

This project provides invaluable insights about how teenage parents can continue their education and still be supportive and positive parents to their children. This research will be of interest to anyone involved in, or working with teenage parents, their children and their families.

Biographical Information

Nikita Heremaia is a member of the Young People's Reference Group (YPRG) and has been a student at the Taonga Education Centre for young mothers since 2004. As a member of the YPRG Nikita has contributed to the development of advice to the Office of the Children's Commissioner and Human Rights Commission on a range of issues impacting on children and young people. Nikita also contributed to a keynote presentation undertaken by the YPRG at the recent Children's Issues Centre Conference on "Children and Young People as Citizens".

Nikita has a specific interest in ensuring young parents continue and have access to the same educational opportunities as their wider peer group. Nikita understands the challenges of providing her child with a sense of belonging, as well as the necessities of life - food, shelter and clothing. Perhaps most importantly though, Nikita understands that being a parent is also about providing her child with a warm bed, a cuddle and a kiss.