West NY News

Chautauqua County has announced the launch of a new, free training program aimed at supporting individuals who are taking on parenting responsibilities for a second time. The "PASTA – Parenting a Second Time Around" program is designed for grandparents, aunts, uncles, foster parents, and other guardians.

The PASTA program includes eight workshops addressing the unique challenges faced by second-time caregivers. Topics covered in these workshops range from understanding emotional and practical shifts to effective discipline techniques and legal concerns for kinship families.

Workshops will be held at two locations:

- North County: Chautauqua County Department of Mental Hygiene Dunkirk Center, 60 Franklin Ave, Dunkirk, NY 14048. Sessions start on September 19th from 5 PM to 6:30 PM.

- South County: James Prendergast Library Fireplace Room, 509 Cherry St, Jamestown, NY 14701. Sessions start on September 10th from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM.

Led by professionals in child development, legal issues, and family dynamics, each session provides practical advice and emotional support. Participants will also have access to various resources designed to assist them in their caregiving roles.

"Parenting for a second time can be both rewarding and challenging. Our goal with the PASTA program is to provide caregivers with the tools they need to succeed," said Tammie Shioleno, Program Facilitator at Chautauqua Tapestry and the Chautauqua County Department of Mental Hygiene. "We want every caregiver to feel confident and supported as they step into this vital role."

To register or learn more about the PASTA program, interested parties should contact Tammie Shioleno at 716-346-5431. Early registration is recommended due to limited space.

The PASTA (Parenting a Second Time Around) program was developed by Cornell Cooperative Extension and is nationally recognized for equipping second-time caregivers with essential skills and knowledge. This initiative is supported by Chautauqua Tapestry and its community partners.