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MOT South Africa, in proud partnership with the Positive Behaviour Intervention & Resource Centre (PBIRC) and supported by the Western Cape Education Department (WCED), hosted a Parent Workshop on 19 September 2026. Parents and guardians from Vista High School, Spes Bona High School, and Rylands High School attended the workshop, which focused on strengthening parent-teen relationships, promoting positive communication, and equipping parents with practical tools to support their children through adolescence.
The workshop centred on MOT’s core values: the Courage to Live, the Courage to Care, and the Courage to Say No. Through thought-provoking discussions, reflection exercises, and interactive activities, parents explored how these values can be applied within their families to foster stronger relationships, encourage responsible decision-making, and support young people as they navigate the challenges of growing up.
A particularly meaningful part of the programme was the River of Life activity. Parents reflected on their personal journeys by considering significant experiences, challenges, successes, and life lessons that have shaped who they are today. The activity encouraged participants to recognise how their own experiences influence their parenting approaches while also highlighting the importance of understanding the unique journeys and experiences of their teenagers.
Another key feature of the workshop was the Punishment and Discipline Activity, which encouraged honest and constructive conversations about responding to challenging behaviour. Through this exercise, parents explored the important distinction between punishment and discipline, reflecting on how guidance, learning, accountability, and consistency can have a greater impact on young people’s development than punitive responses alone.
Throughout the session, parents engaged in meaningful conversations about adolescence and the realities many teenagers face. Discussions focused on emotional wellbeing, identity development, peer influence, and the importance of creating supportive environments where young people feel heard, valued, and understood. Participants reflected on how trust, active listening, and open communication can strengthen family relationships and help teenagers navigate life’s complexities with confidence.
MOT’s value of Courage to Care was woven throughout the workshop, encouraging parents to approach their children with empathy, understanding, and compassion. Conversations highlighted the importance of creating safe spaces where young people feel comfortable expressing themselves and seeking support when faced with challenges.
The value of Courage to Say No reinforced the role parents play in helping teenagers develop healthy boundaries, make responsible choices, and resist negative influences. Parents explored practical ways to guide their children while maintaining clear expectations and consistent support.
Equally important was the discussion around Courage to Live, which inspired parents to encourage their children to embrace opportunities, face challenges with resilience, and develop the confidence needed to pursue their goals and aspirations.
Parents left the workshop feeling empowered, encouraged, and better equipped to support their teenagers. Many expressed gratitude for the opportunity to connect with other parents, share experiences, and gain practical strategies for navigating the teenage years more effectively.
One parent reflected that the workshop had “opened our minds to understand our teenagers better and to approach situations differently, especially when it comes to discipline and punishment.”
The workshop served as a valuable reminder that when parents are equipped with knowledge, understanding, and practical tools, they are better able to nurture strong family relationships and support young people in developing the courage to live, care, and make positive choices. Through collaborative initiatives such as these, MOT South Africa, PBIRC, and WCED continue to strengthen the support systems that help young people thrive both at home and in their communities.
Read about our previous Parents’ Workshop here
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