• if an issue is raised that is beyond your experience or knowledge, don't be afraid to say so. If necessary, tell the guest(s) you will investigate sources of information about the issue before the next session
• see if the issue is covered by The Parenting Book or try another of the books listed in the back of the guest manual. (There is further recommended reading on our website: relationshipcentral.org)
• come back to the issue the following week either by talking to the individual guest over the meal or by raising it again in the small group discussion
• if the issue requires professional help, encourage the guest to talk to a doctor or a trained counsellor

Prior to the course, leaders should discover any other local sources of help for issues that are beyond their experience and beyond the scope of the course.

Guests may wish to discuss with a trained counsellor an issue that has been raised by the course or another issue they are facing. For some parents, coming on The Parenting Children Course will be the first step in seeking help for their situation.

If possible, have the contact details of a counsellor who deals with parenting issues, an educational psychologist or a parenting coach. You may be able to find a counsellor through the Christian Counsellors Association of Australia (http://www.ccaa.net.au) or your State based associations of counselling and psychotherapy. Their child's school may have an educational psychologist to whom they can be referred. Otherwise recommend guests consult their doctor, particularly if the issue relates to their own or their child's physical or emotional health.