Belize Moves Forward With First National Parenting Guide

Representatives met yesterday at the Best Western Plus Biltmore Plaza to review Belize’s Parenting Guide and continue work on the country’s first National Parenting Policy. The initiative is being led by UNICEF and the National Committee for Families and Children. It builds on consultations started last year to review the 2017 “Art of Parenting” guide and look at how parenting programs can work better together across the country. Executive Director Shakira Sutherland spoke on how strong parenting support systems are important for protecting children and helping families do better.

According to UNICEF representative Michelle Segura McGann, UNICEF continues to support Belize in the development of the National Parenting Policy and Parenting Guide. She noted that the process is ongoing as those involved continue to further develop the plan.

The project is also exploring the difficulties many families are dealing with today, such as child safety concerns and limited access to support services. The organizers say the goal is to make information and assistance more accessible to parents nationwide.