Conflict Resolution Conversation

The Government recognises that family is the cornerstone of society and endeavours to enhance family harmony with a view to building a harmonious community and alleviating social problems. In this connection, the Government established the Family Council in December 2007 to promote a culture of loving families in the community. The work of the Council includes –
advocating cherishing the family and promoting family core values i.e. "Love and Care", "Respect and Responsibility" and "Communication and Harmony", as a main driver for social harmony through organising various programmes and activities;
advising Government bureaux and departments on the application of family perspectives in the policy formulation process. Since 1 April 2013, the assessment of family implications has become a mandatory requirement and integral part of the policy-making process. Bureaux and departments are required to use the three sets of family core values as identified by the Council, as well as the impact on family's structure and functions, as the basis for assessing the impact of the relevant policies on families. A checklist tool was also introduced to facilitate a more instrumental and thorough assessment of family implications in August 2018; and
conducting researches and surveys to foster a better understanding of the issues relating to the family.

Project Name: Conflict resolution conversation

Target Audience: Parents of primary school students (Grade 4 to Grade 6)

Number of Participants: 500

Number of Participants in the Study: 150

As children grow up, the roles that parents play in their children's development constantly change. Parents transition from being caregivers (during the preschool stage), caretakers, enforcers of rules (during primary school), competitors, and guides (during secondary school) to becoming mentors (in adulthood). This poses challenges to parents' adaptability and ability to cope with their children's changes. Effective communication, mindset, thinking, and conflict resolution skills are essential. When handled properly, conflicts can be an opportunity for mutual understanding, promoting the resolution of differences, and letting bygones be bygones.

This program focuses on parents and offers a series of lectures and workshops. Through interactive games, role-playing, short play creation, board game competitions, and more, we explore the causes behind conflicts, immediate emotions, choices of different handling methods, and their consequences. We demonstrate how to transform from a vicious cycle of communication to a virtuous cycle using the interactive model of a family council. Additionally, board games are used as a communication tool to help family members (children/parents/grandparents) understand conflict resolution mechanisms and methods through gameplay. Parents will take on the role of Conflict Transformers, approaching conflicts in the family with a fresh perspective, positive thinking, and proactive attitude. This program aims to enhance parents' sense of self-efficacy in parenting and overall family well-being.