The Vine - Winter/Spring 2012

by VMP Staff |  March 29, 2012

Kids thrive at Vine Maple Place
The parenting skills learned by our residents bear wonderful fruit

     Niki came to Vine Maple Place last summer. Before that she lived in her car with her 2 young children and was pregnant with a high risk pregnancy. They spent all their energy figuring out how to meet their daily needs.
     Her 5 year old son had behavioral issues and was struggling in school and daycare. Her 9 year old daughter was acting like an adult. She was so worried about adult things she couldn’t be a kid, unable to even go play when they went to the park.
      “I was so relieved when I learned that I would be moving into Vine Maple Place and get support and help. For the first time in our lives we would have stability without fear of another person’s anger. My home (I still love saying that!) had everything we needed; water, warmth, and even a washer and dryer. But more, we had people who supported us. That was another first for us.”
Niki is learning a lot while here, but she’s most excited about the parenting skills she is gaining.  “Parenting was never modeled, as I grew up with a single mom who was and is a drug addict. Here at Vine Maple Place I am learning how to parent my children and the results have been immediate.”
The children now have a bedtime, which has been a tremendous help with their morning routine. She is amazed by the difference in their behavior. They are now getting up rested and getting themselves ready for the day.
      They have reduced the sugar intake, and their meals are much more balanced. “I just didn’t understand the importance of nutrition on behavior and overall health before coming to Vine Maple Place.”
      A new family ritual they’ll take with them is sitting at the table together for dinner, without any electronic games or television. “I am learning so much about my kids during dinner time. I realized my daughter is an amazingly creative person. And my son does math as he chews. We are enjoying each other like never before. I’ve also learned that follow through really makes a difference. My children are now thriving, not just surviving.”
      In addition, Niki has renewed her faith. “I have gotten quite close to God. I lost my path and my faith for awhile. It feels so good to have it back and bring it into my kids’ lives. They are praying at dinner and bedtime without prompting. I appreciate Vine Maple Place very much. The dynamics of my home will never be the same.”